“During her time with us, Bec brought clear focus and energy to employee engagement, talent development, succession planning, and global mobility. She’s also been a strong advocate for diversity, inclusion, and belonging, including initiatives for our First Nations team members,” Mr Stone said.

“We have a talented People team and strong momentum to sustain this important work with a focus on building a high-performing culture.

“We thank Bec for her contribution to Bupa and wish her all the best for the future," he said.

Maria Marinelli has been appointed Acting Chief People Officer, in addition to her role as Bupa General Counsel APAC. 

• Bupa is calling for amendments to the Private Health Insurance Amendment (Modernising the Private Health Insurance Rebate) Bill 2026.
• The proposed changes would remove the age-based private health insurance rebate for some Australians aged 65 and over.
• Around 500,000 Bupa health insurance policies are held by lower-income Australians aged over 65.
• Bupa says the changes could make private health insurance less affordable for pensioners and retirees.
• Bupa supports additional investment in aged care but believes older Australians should not face higher health insurance costs to fund it.

Quotes attributable to Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams

At a time when pensioners and retirees are already being squeezed by rising living costs, removing the age-based rebate risks pricing some older Australians out of private health insurance altogether.

About 500,000 Bupa health insurance policies are held by Australians aged more than 65 on lower incomes. After decades of contributing to the private health system, many now face the prospect of paying more for the cover they have relied on for years.

Many have told us they are already struggling with cost-of-living pressures. Removing the age-based rebate could be the tipping point that forces some to downgrade or abandon their cover, reducing access to private care and putting further pressure on the public health system.

While Bupa supports the intent to provide additional funding for aged care, older Australians should not have to pay for it through higher health insurance costs.

That’s why we are calling for urgent amendments to the Private Health Insurance Amendment (Modernising the Private Health Insurance Rebate) Bill 2026 to protect pensioners and low-income older Australians from changes to the age-based rebate.

Older Australians who have done the right thing for decades should not be priced out of the health cover they depend on. Bupa will continue advocating for changes that protect affordable access to care.

To read Bupa’s full submission on the private health insurance age-based rebate for Australians aged 65 years and over click here.

Eliud Kipchoge will bring the legacy ambitions of his Running World Tour to Melbourne during Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival week, joining Bupa for an intimate conversation about running, purpose and the role healthier environments play in healthier lives.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time, Kipchoge is a two-time Olympic marathon champion and, in 2019, became the first person to cover the marathon distance in under two hours in a specially staged event.

Bupa is hosting the event as part of the Melbourne leg of Kipchoge’s Running World Tour, through its Healthy Cities program, which connects everyday movement with investment in greener urban environments and reflects Bupa’s belief that the health of people and the health of the planet are deeply connected.

Bupa has also partnered with Kipchoge, Landcare Australia and the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival on the Melbourne Marathon Healthy Cities Nature Trail, which will connect six priority restoration sites across Port Melbourne, Albert Park, Middle Park, St Kilda and Elwood.

The project will see 5,000 native plants planted in 2027 across coastal dunes, remnant grasslands, biodiversity corridors and urban reserves, helping restore habitat and improve connections between natural areas for native birds, reptiles, pollinators and other wildlife.

Interpretive signage and QR-enabled educational resources will also encourage people using the area to learn more about local biodiversity as they run, walk and cycle through the trail.

During INSIDE THE MARATHON MIND OF ELIUD KIPCHOGE, a small group of invited guests and media will hear how Kipchoge approaches the defining stages of a marathon - and how his ideas about discipline, reflection and purpose extend beyond the race itself.

Rather than revisiting records and race results, the conversation will examine the less visible aspect of elite endurance: patience, consistency, reflection and the thoughts a runner carries when the body wants to stop. It will also explore the legacy Kipchoge hopes to create through running and the responsibility athletes, organisations and communities share in supporting healthier places to live and move.

Australian marathon great Steve Moneghetti will facilitate the conversation, drawing on his experience across four Olympic Games and bringing his training diary from the 1990 Berlin Marathon to prompt a comparison between the preparation and reflection practices of two generations of marathon runners.

“Running has given me more than records or medals. It has taught me that every step can have a purpose beyond ourselves” said Kipchoge.

“My hope with this World Tour is to remind people everywhere that running is much more than a sport. It is a way to bring humanity together. I want every runner, whether they are chasing a marathon finish or simply taking their first steps, to believe in their dreams and discover that they are capable of more than they imagine.

“When we challenge ourselves with discipline and consistency, we grow not only as athletes but as people. I believe that when we run united across borders, cultures and communities, we create hope, friendship and a stronger world. Melbourne is another opportunity for us all to run together for something bigger than ourselves. A better, healthier and more peaceful world.”

Kipchoge, an avid and meticulous journaler, will also bring his journal to the event. Each guest will receive a journal inspired by his practice and will be invited to reflect on the lessons, intentions and legacy they want to carry with them when their own race becomes difficult. This limited-edition keepsake will become a physical reminder of the purpose they want to take to the start line and beyond it.

“The health of people and the health of the planet are deeply connected,” said Michael Burgess, Director Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Bupa.

“That is why Bupa is working with Eliud on the Melbourne leg of his Running World Tour. His ambition to create a legacy beyond elite performance strongly aligns with Healthy Cities and our work to support greener urban environments that make movement, time outdoors and connection with nature more accessible.

“This is not simply about one event or one race. It is about using the reach of running to encourage healthier behaviour while investing in the places that help healthier communities thrive.”

Since the Healthy Cities program launched in Australia and New Zealand in 2023, Bupa has invested more than $5 million across more than 140 projects with organisations including Landcare Australia, contributing to the planting of more than 580,000 native plants and trees.

During Bupa's 2025 APAC Healthy Cities Challenge, 16,615 people participated, moving the equivalent of 4.4 billion steps.

The 2026 Bupa Pulse Check found that 69% of Australians currently make time to spend outdoors or in nature, while a further 20% would like to do more. Almost half use active transport such as walking, running or cycling as part of everyday life.

The partnership reflects Bupa's Everything for Health brand platform by recognising that improving health requires attention to both individual wellbeing and the environments that shape it.

Government data suggests the highest rate of cost related mental health support avoidance was seen for people aged 25-34 (24 per cent) and females who avoided care at a rate 50 per cent higher than men (23 per cent vs 15 per cent). People living in areas of greater disadvantage are more likely to delay seeking care due to cost and use Medicare-subsidised mental health services at lower rates.^[3]

Glenn McPhee, Managing Director - Mindplace, Government and Corporate Health, said the Mindplace low-cost initiative is designed to help people get access to more affordable, ongoing mental health support at a time when too many are being forced to choose what they can and can’t afford.

“We continue to hear from clients who cannot afford ongoing mental health care due to cost-of-living pressures. This offer is about reducing barriers to care for more Australians and helping those who need to start or continue with their mental health care," Mr McPhee said.

“By expanding Mindplace’s network of mental health centres throughout metropolitan and regional areas, Bupa intends to play a pivotal role in meeting the increasing demand for mental health support in our community.”

According to recent Government data, in 2024-25, more than 1 in 5 people living in Major cities (21%) indicated cost as a reason for not seeing a mental health professional. Understandably, the problem is even worse for those living in the most disadvantaged areas of our community, with almost 1 in 4 people citing cost as a reason for not seeing a mental health professional^[4].

“Through the provision of low-cost options and a growing mental health workforce, our ambition is to work in partnership with the services already provided by the public system to ensure all Australians can access the mental health support they need.

“As demand for mental health services continues to rise, it is critical that private providers work alongside government and public providers to advocate for and deliver better solutions that improve access to care and help address Australia's mental health crisis,” Mr McPhee said.

Mindplace is open to all Australians, regardless of their health insurance status, and is focused on improving access to mental health support through a connected model of care.

For more information about Mindplace visit here.

^{[1] National Mental Health Commission, National Report Card 2025, national-report-card-2025_0.pdf
[2]The Mindplace low-cost offering is available until 28 February 2027. Visit the Mindplace website for full details and Terms & Conditions. Out of pocket costs based on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) billing rules for mental health services as of 1 July 2026. For a Medicare-eligible client with an appropriate referral under the Better Access initiative, a standard individual consultation of at least 50 minutes with an eligible registered psychologist is currently billed under MBS item 80110. At a consultation fee of $129, this results in an estimated $27.45 out-of-pocket cost. For a Medicare-eligible client with an appropriate referral, a standard individual consultation of at least 50 minutes with eligible clinical psychologist is currently billed under MBS item 80010. At a consultation fee of $175, this results in an estimated $25.95 out-of-pocket cost.
[3] For richer, but not for poorer: How Australia’s mental health system fails those most in need - MCHRI
[4] National Mental Health Commission, National Report Card 2025, national-report-card-2025_0.pdf}

The week will showcase the five established pathways in Australian tennis – wheelchair tennis, blind and low vision tennis, intellectual disability and autism tennis, deaf and hard of hearing tennis, and para-standing tennis.

This year, 65 clubs, coaching businesses, venues, disability hubs and community organisations across the country will deliver inclusive tennis activities, helping more Australians experience the benefits of the sport.

For the first time, five padel venues will also take part, extending the program beyond traditional tennis environments and creating new inclusive participation opportunities through one of Australia’s fastest growing sports.

The expanded program is designed to encourage participation beyond the week itself, with funded organisations required to deliver at least four follow up sessions. This is expected to generate a minimum of 256 ongoing playing sessions nationally, helping participants build their skills, confidence and an ongoing connection with tennis.

Tennis Australia Chief Tennis Officer Tom Larner said the growth of All Abilities Week reflected a commitment to making tennis more accessible.

“It's fantastic to see All Abilities Week grow in its second year, with more clubs, coaches and community organisations getting involved across the country,” Larner said.

“What’s particularly important is that these opportunities don’t end when the week does.

“By supporting clubs to deliver ongoing sessions, we’re helping more people with disability discover tennis, build connections in their local communities and find a pathway to continue playing.”

As presenting partner, Bupa will once again support All Abilities Week, building on its partnership with Tennis Australia and a shared commitment to improving health, wellbeing and inclusion through sport.

Bupa Marketing and Brand General Manager Naomi Driver said we all had a role to play in increasing accessibility to sports.

“All Abilities Week is all about giving people the chance to get on court, sometimes for the very first time, and giving tennis a go,” Driver said.

Being active looks different for everyone, which is why we're proud to support opportunities for more people with a disability to experience the physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits of sport.”

How to get involved

Throughout All Abilities Week, participating clubs, coaches and organisations will host activities across Australia, giving people with disability the opportunity to try tennis, connect with their local tennis community and explore pathways for ongoing participation.

From introductory sessions for first time players to activities showcasing the different disability pathways, the week will encourage people of all ages and abilities to get involved.

To find a participating club or venue near you and learn more about All Abilities Week activities, visit the Tennis Australia website.

Joe goes from the nation’s PE teacher to health trend test pilot, taking on a series of intense, real-world experiments overseen by leading health experts. What happens when Joe spends 24 hours alone in one of the UK’s forgotten rainforests? When he almost halves his sleep? Or when he’s sealed inside a Joe-sized box to tackle one of his biggest anxieties head-on?

The series combines Joe's curiosity and passion for making healthy living simple and achievable with Bupa's almost 80 years of health expertise. It also brings together some of the world’s most trusted neuroscientists, nutritionists, movement coaches, sleep scientists and psychotherapists. Equipping audiences with evidence-backed advice that cuts through internet noise, Health or Hype will deliver simple principles to help audiences take day-to-day control of their health – it’s a one-stop-shop to healthier living.

“There’s so much health advice out there, even I get bogged down in it all. So I’ve teamed up with Bupa to find out what can actually help make a difference – even when that means I’m the experiment! As the experts analyse what happens, I hope everyone will come away with health advice that’s actually worth holding on to.” – Joe Wicks, host of Health or Hype.

Dr Melvin Samsom, Group Chief Medical and Sustainability Officer at Bupa, said: “Every day, people are surrounded by a constant stream of health advice and information. But when it comes to our mind and body, knowing what is genuinely helpful can be challenging.

That’s why Bupa has partnered with world-class experts and Joe Wicks to explore some of the health questions people are searching for most online. By combining evidence-based expert insight with real-world experiences, the podcast uncovers daily actions that can help us live longer, healthier, happier lives."

Episode synopses

Episode 1: Movement

What happens when Joe Wicks drastically reduces his movement? With GB Paralympian Richard Whitehead, and movement coach Darryl Edwards

What happens to your metabolism and mood when you drop down to 2,000 steps a day? Joe takes a clinical PNOE breath test to reveal the immediate costs of a sedentary lifestyle – and explores how ‘movement snacks’ and playfulness can improve our mood, energy, and long-term wellbeing.

Episode 2: Nature

What happens when Joe Wicks spends 24 hours alone in the woods? With Neuroscientist Katherine Templar Lewis, and wildlife activist Nadeem Perera

Stripped of tech and left alone in a temperate rainforest, Joe puts the power of nature to the ultimate test – and then investigates how we can feel the same health benefits without leaving the city. Cutting-edge scientific testing reveals what nature does to Joe's brain, and Joe learns how birdsong can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Episode 3: Nutrition

What happens when Joe Wicks goes on a fibre fast? With Dr Megan Rossi, The Gut Health Doctor

Which diet change plummeted Joe's happiness score from 7 to 3 in just three days? And why does Dr Rossi advise against the ‘fibremaxxing’ trend? From unpacking the "Super Six" plant-based food groups to finding budget-friendly gut hacks, discover the simple, everyday science behind building a healthier microbiome.

Episode 4: Sleep

What happens when Joe Wicks drastically reduces his sleep? With sleep scientist Dr. Sophie Bostock

What happens to your body and brain when you’re only getting five hours of sleep a night? From sudden junk food cravings to soaring screen time, Joe experiences the reality faced by parents, shift workers and insomniacs. Sleep scientist Dr Sophie Bostock reveals the science behind better sleep, why consistency beats perfection, and the daily habits that can help you recharge when you’re short on time. And what happens to our mind and body when we don’t sleep enough?

Episode 5: Anxiety

Can you befriend anxiety? Joe Wicks faces his worst fear, with psychotherapist Owen O'Kane, breathwork expert Liza Al Sady, and Rugby Union player Ruby Tui

Psychotherapist Owen O’Kane reveals why trying to eliminate anxiety can often backfire – and how embracing it can be much more helpful. Joe also explores different ways to feel calm and confident with help from international rugby legend Ruby Tui and breathwork expert Liza Al Sady… but when he gets locked in a Joe-sized box to put the lessons he's learned to work, how does he cope?

About Joe Wicks (MBE)

Known to millions as The Body Coach, Joe Wicks MBE is one of the UK's most trusted and inspiring voices in health, fitness and wellbeing. What began as simple home workout videos and "Lean in 15" recipes has grown into a global movement helping millions of people transform their lives through food, fitness and mindset.

He's sold over 5 million cookbooks, created the award-winning Body Coach App, and inspired a generation to move more - from families working out together with 'PE With Joe' during lockdown to children getting active through his new animated kids' series Activate.

Joe's passion is to make fitness accessible for everyone - regardless of age, income or ability - and to continue finding new, inspiring ways to help more people feel fitter, healthier and happier.

Alongside his fitness app business, digital content and publishing success, Joe has expanded into live events, television and philanthropy through his Body Coach Foundation.

As a best-selling author, presenter and founder of the Body Coach App, Joe has inspired millions around the world to get fitter, healthier and happier.

Bronwyn Portes, Bupa APAC Director of Social Impact and Sustainability, said the expanded program reflects Bupa’s commitment to supporting grassroots organisations delivering meaningful local impact

“As a health and care company, we know we can’t create healthier communities on our own. Real change happens when businesses, community organisations and local leaders roll up their sleeves and work together on practical initiatives.

“That’s why we’re proud to be increasing both the size of our grant pool and the value of individual grants this year. We want to help community organisations take their impact further, whether that’s supporting mental wellbeing, strengthening social connections, improving physical health, or helping people and nature thrive together,” Ms Portes said.

Previous grant recipients have included organisations such as the Legacy Club Brisbane, Delta Therapy Dogs and Waipuna Hospice, alongside dozens of other community groups delivering positive outcomes for people and the environment.

“The introduction of larger grants of up to $50,000 is designed to help organisations scale successful programs, expand their reach and create lasting impact in the communities they serve.

“Across Australia and New Zealand, there are countless community-led initiatives making a real difference every day in metropolitan areas but also in remote regions, First Nations communities and amongst veterans. We encourage eligible organisations to apply and share their vision for creating healthier communities,” Ms Portes said.

Applications for the 2026 Bupa Foundation Community Grants Program are now open. For more information on eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit here.

Despite changes to treatment advice^[2] which recommends a move away from traditional ‘blue puffers’ to inhaled steroids, there are concerns many of the 2.8 million Aussies living with asthma,^[3] may not have the right medication for spring when increased pollen levels and wind can increase the risk of attacks.

Dr Jonathan Brown, Medical Director of Bupa Medical said too many Australians don’t think about asthma until they need to reach for their inhalers.

“Asthma flare ups can happen quickly due to spikes in pollen during thunderstorms and high winds so being prepared is essential. If you are asthmatic and using your blue reliever inhaler more than twice a week, then your asthma isn’t well controlled.

"We understand cost-of-living pressures are forcing many Australians to make difficult choices about their healthcare but delaying or skipping asthma medication can increase the risk of serious health consequences, particularly as we enter the spring asthma season. If you've been stretching out prescriptions, using expired medication or haven't reviewed your asthma management recently please book in to see your local GP who can get your asthma management back on track,” Dr Brown said.

Bupa research also revealed that cost was nominated as the number one barrier to maintaining health and wellbeing for Australians^[4], ahead of time pressures and general complacency.

“Asthma flare-ups can be unpredictable, so it’s vital to be prepared, have an action plan and seek urgent medical attention where required. The right treatment and preparation can help prevent symptoms from escalating and reduce the likelihood of needing emergency care."

“Knowing what services are available, particularly after hours, such as Medicare Urgent Care Clinics or 24/7 online doctors can be great resources for when a non-urgent medical situation does not necessarily require a visit to your local Hospital Emergency department,” Dr Brown said.

Through Blua, eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers can arrange to speak to a doctor 24/7, with 100% of appointment fees covered for up to 3 or 6 appointments per person each year, depending on their level of cover^[5].

To find a Bupa Medical Centre near you visit here.

^{[1] McKell-Stil-out-of-pocket-2026.pdf
[2] https://www.asthmahandbook.org.au/management/adults-and-adolescents/medication-management/initial-asthma-treatment-for-adults-and-adolescents-after-diagnosis
[3] Chronic respiratory conditions: Asthma - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
[4] Bupa Pulse Check 2026.pdf}

Last year, the Healthy Cities challenge saw more than 16,000 participants take over 4.4 billion steps across Asia Pacific, helping create greener, healthier and more climate-resilient communities through partnerships with Landcare Australia and Trees that Count in New Zealand.

Bupa Asia Pacific CEO Nick Stone said Healthy Cities continues to build in momentum because it combines two issues people care deeply about, their health and the future of their communities.

"We're seeing more people recognise the connection between healthy people and healthy places. The Healthy Cities challenge gives everyone the opportunity to take simple actions that improve their own wellbeing while helping create greener, more liveable communities for future generations."

"This year, we're aiming to make our biggest impact yet. We want to inspire thousands of people across Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong to get moving, get outdoors and help unlock significant new investment into local projects that make a lasting difference," Mr Stone said.

The Challenge, launched with the support of Australian marathon legend Robert de Castella AO, MBE comes at a time of growing climate change anxiety, with 44 per cent of Australians saying they are stressed about society’s’ impact on the environment, including 47 per cent of those under 40[2].

"The environments we live in shape our health every day. Greener neighbourhoods can encourage physical activity, strengthen social connection, support biodiversity and help communities become more resilient to a changing climate.

“Healthy Cities demonstrates how collective action can drive meaningful change. No single organisation can solve the challenges facing our communities alone, but when thousands of people take small steps together, the impact can be extraordinary,” Mr Stone said.

The Healthy Cities program form an essential part of Bupa’s commitment to grass-roots sustainability initiatives and launches alongside its sponsorship of Fed Square’s RESET Festival which provides free, family-friendly activities to help attendees reconnect with nature.

For more information about the Healthy Cities challenge visit here.

^{[1] Bupa Pulse Check 2026.pdf
[2] Bupa Pulse Check 2026.pdf}

Reporting to APAC CEO, Nick Stone, and joining Bupa’s Executive Leadership team, Mr Rose will commence at Bupa in November 2026. Mr Rose’s appointment follows previous Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Roger Sharp, recently leaving Bupa to take up a role in the not-for-profit health sector.

Jonathan will play a pivotal role in shaping our communications and engagement, public affairs, media, external relations and sustainability agenda. Throughout his career, Jonathan has worked across the Asia-Pacific region, helping organisations navigate complex issues and build trust with governments, investors, media and communities. He has extensive experience managing major reputation programs and advising leadership teams during periods of significant change and public interest.

Jonathan’s career has spanned diverse industries, having worked for organisations including General Motors, Telstra, Cricket Australia, NAB, and Bupa, prior to his most recent role at Rio Tinto where he was responsible for communications in Australia.

Mr Stone said: “I am delighted to welcome Jonathan back to Bupa. He brings deep experience in corporate affairs and stakeholder engagement, and his leadership will strengthen our ability to deliver on our purpose and support the continued growth and success of Bupa across the region.”

Mr Rose said: “I’m proud to be returning to Bupa to lead Corporate Affairs and Sustainability.

“I’m looking forward to working with talented colleagues across the organisation, supporting the business through both opportunities and challenges, and helping tell the Bupa story in a meaningful and engaging way.”

Bupa’s discussion paper, Building a More Accessible, Modern and Sustainable Health System, sets out a vision for a health system better equipped to address the chronic disease burden affecting 15.4 million Australians, with Australians spending almost 11 years of their lives in ill health, much of it linked to preventable or manageable conditions.

Developed in part with economics, strategy and policy consulting firm, Mandala Partners, and launched today at Parliament House in Canberra, the paper focuses on ways to expand access to preventive and primary care, accelerate adoption of innovative models of care, improve access and affordability in specialist services, and strengthen the long-term sustainability and viability of Australia's health system.

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said: “We have one of the best health systems in the world, but it was designed for a different Australia and a different era of care. The next generation of healthcare will require bold, practical reform.

“Prevention should be at the centre of Australia's next phase of health reform,” Mr Stone said.

“An ageing population, rising chronic disease, workforce shortages, growing out-of-pocket costs and increasing financial pressure on governments and households are already affecting how Australians access care. Customer expectations have also changed dramatically.

“Too often, the system is organised around health episodes, institutions and locations rather than the journeys, continuity of care and outcomes that people face.

“Our ambition is simple: to help Australians live longer, healthier and happier lives. To achieve that, healthcare must become more connected, preventative, convenient and centred around patients. That’s why we want to work with government and key sector leaders to ensure Australia’s health system remains sustainable, accessible and fit for the future.”

Key recommendations in the report include:

• Establish a National Prevention Partnership Framework to help governments, providers and insurers invest in prevention, improve health outcomes and reduce pressure on hospitals.

• Enable private health insurers to fund prevention and early intervention including health checks, screening, coaching and care coordination before conditions become serious.

• Give insurers greater flexibility to fund mental health care outside hospitals, potentially avoiding 41,000 admissions and saving $140 million a year.

• Expand Hospital in the Home so more Australians can receive hospital-level treatment including IV antibiotics, wound care and post-operative recovery safely at home.

• Continue moving Medicare towards blended funding that rewards prevention, chronic disease management and coordinated care involving nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals.

• Fast-track workforce reforms, including streamlined pathways for overseas-trained doctors, a national specialist workforce plan and expanded specialist training.

The paper reinforces healthcare workforce shortages are becoming one of the biggest threats to access and affordability, with Australia facing a projected shortfall of more than 8,600 GPs and 12,800 specialists by 2048, while four in ten GPs are already aged 55 and above.

Bupa is calling for urgent reforms focusing on prevention, early intervention and chronic disease management, as current funding and regulations remain largely focused on treating illness after it becomes more serious.

The paper notes Australia recorded almost 788,000 preventable hospitalisations at a cost of $7.7 billion in 2023-24, highlighting the growing cost of treating illness after it develops.

“Preventive health represents one of the greatest opportunities to improve health outcomes, reduce long-term costs and ensure the sustainability of the health system. Improving health outcomes through better management of chronic disease and reduced hospitalisations is key and reorienting our healthcare system towards prevention… is a large part of the solution to tackling chronic disease,” the paper states.

Evidence in the paper shows prevention initiatives generate a median return of $14.30 for every dollar invested, making prevention one of the most effective investments available to the health system.

The discussion paper highlights current funding has not kept pace with contemporary healthcare needs, with lower returns for longer consultations, where patient needs are complex or chronic conditions are involved and favouring consultations and interventions after illness develops rather than preventive care and ongoing management.

“While Medicare's fee-for-service design funds individual episodes of care, it is poorly suited to prevention and coordination. As demand for health services continues to increase, investment alone will not be enough. We must look at preventative health models to help slow this rise,” the paper says.

“GPs frequently need specialist input on a discrete question, but the MBS provides no dedicated mechanism for brief specialist advice outside a formal consultation, and case-conferencing items are ill-suited to routine secondary consultation.”

More than 300,000 mental health-related presentations to public emergency departments in 2024-25 highlight the need for earlier intervention, with the paper calling for greater flexibility to fund evidence-based mental health care in community and digital settings before people reach crisis point.

“Mental health is one of the most substantial and persistent pressures on Australia's health system, workforce and economy. Rebalancing towards prevention and out-of-hospital care would improve system efficiency and increase the return on existing investment,” the report says.

Mr Stone said achieving meaningful and lasting change will require shared responsibility and genuine collaboration between governments, clinicians, insurers, providers, consumers and the broader health sector.

“We welcome the important steps the Government has already taken to lay the foundations for reform in several of these key areas. Our recommendations are intended to complement those efforts and support a health system that is more connected, prevention-focused and centred on the needs of patients,” he said.

To read the full Building a More Accessible, Modern and Sustainable Health System discussion paper, click here.

Jayant has been acting in the interim role since April this year, following his role as Finance Director for BVAC Australia. During more than 15 years with Bupa, he has made a significant contribution to the growth and performance of the aged care business, earning a reputation as a values-led leader who keeps residents, customers and people at the centre. His deep understanding of the aged care sector, combined with his focus on high-quality care, positions him well to lead BVAC into its next chapter.

Nick Stone, CEO, Bupa APAC, said the appointment reflected the depth leadership talent within Bupa and would further strengthen Bupa’s ability to deliver for residents and customers.

“Jayant has been an outstanding leader at Bupa for many years and has played a significant role in the success of our aged care business. I know he will continue to make a meaningful difference for our residents and their families.”

Mr Krishnan said: "It’s a privilege to be leading our aged care business in Australia. I’ve seen first-hand the dedication of our people in our homes and how hard they work to make a difference in the lives of our residents and their families every day.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with our teams across Australia to deliver high-quality care and exceptional experiences for those we serve."

Since launching nationally in 2020, the program has supported 3387 clients, of those one in five have been Bupa customers, to safely withdraw from alcohol and begin structured recovery support at home. Thousands of clients are currently engaged in active treatment, reflecting growing demand for accessible, telehealth-delivered care.

Of those who have gone through the program, more than 60% are female and 39% are male. Those aged between 35 and 54 make up the majority needing help (almost 55%) followed by 55+ (almost 27%).

The program includes daily telehealth calls with a specialist nurse during the detox period, 12 months of follow-up support, access to a personalised recovery plan and peer support group, and regular communication with the client’s GP to ensure continuity of care.

Traditionally, people seeking help for alcohol dependence are required to be admitted to a hospital or inpatient facility for several days or weeks.

It comes as new data in the annual Bupa Pulse Check also reveals Aussies are cutting back on alcohol with 45% reducing alcohol consumption and 16% saying they would like to cut back on drinking alcohol, indicating a positive trend towards healthier habits.

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said the collaboration showed how healthcare could be delivered beyond traditional settings and help improve access to vital support.

“Through our partnership with Clean Slate Clinic, we are helping make treatment easier to access at home, with support from clinical care and telehealth. It is about removing barriers and making sure people can get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”

Clean Slate Clinic’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Chris Davis said: “We’re seeing a clear cultural shift. More Australians are reflecting on their relationship with alcohol and actively looking to cut back. The challenge is ensuring that when someone decides they’re ready for support - safe and clinically appropriate care is accessible without delay.

“Our partnership with Bupa plays an important role in reducing these financial and structural barriers, helping more Australians to access medically supervised treatment at home.”

Before starting the program, participants undergo a telehealth assessment with a Clean Slate Clinic nurse to ensure clinical suitability. With the client’s consent, Clean Slate Clinic will also liaise with their regular GP to coordinate ongoing support.

The 12-month program includes psychological and physical preparation for detox success, prescribed medications and vitamins (if needed) to manage withdrawal, a personalised post-detox recovery plan with relapse prevention strategies, scheduled follow-up calls with their dedicated nurse for ongoing guidance.

I'd like to start with a story about a customer named Rhys.

For fifteen years, Rhys lived with chronic back pain.

Like many Australians, Rhys did everything he was supposed to do. He sought advice, tried treatments and followed recommendations. Yet despite years of effort, the pain remained.

Eventually, he found himself asking the same question many Australians ask when navigating our health system: 'What am I supposed to do next?'

Then one day, while carrying his infant daughter, Rhys collapsed. Fortunately, she wasn't hurt.

But the moment mattered. Because it wasn’t just about the pain – it was about what the pain had taken. His sense of control. His ability to be present as a father, without fear.

Rhys needed confidence that there was a clear path forward.

We often talk about access to healthcare, and it matters enormously. But one of the biggest challenges facing Australians is confidence - knowing where to go, what to do next and that somebody is helping guide them.

Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. But for many people, the experience of navigating it can still feel confusing and uncertain. You receive a diagnosis, a referral or a set of test results and suddenly you're faced with a series of decisions. What happens next? How urgently do I need to act? What will it cost? And what are my options?

Too often we ask people at their most vulnerable to coordinate their own care. And that uncertainty has consequences. People delay seeking help. They disengage.

That is why the opportunity in front of us is not just improving access. It is improving confidence.

In many ways, navigating healthcare today can feel like trying to find your way through a new city using an old street directory. You can eventually get where you need to go, but it is slow, stressful and there is always a lingering uncertainty about whether you're heading in the right direction.

Most of us wouldn't travel that way today. We use GPS. Not because it drives the car, but because it helps us understand our options, adjust when circumstances change and move forward with confidence.

That future rests on three things: connection, collaboration and care.

Those same principles shape how we think about Blua – our digital health experience designed to make it simple to access care, understand your options and take the next step.

• Blua connects people to the information and healthcare services available to them, whether face-to-face or virtual.
• Through strong collaboration with providers and industry partners, we’re making it easier to see what care is available and how to access it.
• And at every step, care remains central; helping people feel supported, informed and confident in their health decisions.

While still evolving, Blua is how Bupa is making it easier for customers to see and access the care available to them – bringing together a range of Bupa services and partner programs into one place, while better connecting people to the broader health system.

Today, that includes helping customers find relevant information, connect with healthcare providers, book virtual GP consultations and access support programs, while also making it easier to identify providers in Bupa’s Members First network to help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Over time, Blua will become an even more personalised health companion helping people navigate increasingly complex health journeys with greater confidence while keeping them firmly in control of the decisions and choices that matter. Importantly, Blua is available to both Bupa customers and the broader Australian community, making trusted health support more accessible to everyone.

And, Blua is not about directing people into Bupa services.

For us, the future is about helping people navigate their individual healthcare journey with confidence to quickly access the right care and information available to them across the broader health system. Because trust in the system comes from understanding your options and knowing what to do next. 

And this brings me back to Rhys.

What changed for him wasn’t a single appointment or intervention, it was finally having his care connected.

Through Blua, Rhys was connected with MoreGoodDays, an evidence-based program combining physiotherapy, psychology and digital support – with more than 80 per cent of participants reporting significant improvements in back pain.^[1]

What struck me most about Rhys’ story wasn't that he hadn’t tried physiotherapy or digital tools before. It was that, for the first time, those elements were brought together into a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to his care.

That’s what connected care looks like in practice. The physiotherapist, the psychologist and the digital support all worked together to provide continuity and guidance. Rhys had a pathway – and the confidence to follow it.

Last year more than 367,000 of our customers used a Blua service, and 230,000 people accessed online GP services through Blua Virtual Consults. Almost 70% of these appointments were resolved in the first consultation, with millions saved in out-of-pocket costs for customers.

Now, to be clear – nothing replaces the role of the ‘family medical home’: a patient’s regular GP as their trusted coordinator of care.

We also recognise that GPs are under increasing pressure, and access and affordability remain real challenges for many Australians.

What we’re seeing through Blua is the complementary role that virtual care can play – helping customers access timely support, particularly where traditional access points are constrained. More than 60% of Blua Virtual Consults are now taking place outside of business hours, demonstrating how these services can extend access when people need it most.

But it goes far beyond that. Blua is also starting to put more control in people’s hands – making it easier to take a more proactive role in their health, whether that’s initiating preventative checks, accessing support earlier, or building healthier habits over time.

This expanded choice is helping meet growing consumer expectations, while supporting better use of the health system overall.

The impact is threefold: improving patient experiences, supporting clinicians, and helping people connect to the care setting that best meets their needs – whether that’s a GP, a specialist, a hospital, a virtual appointment, or care at home.

What gives me confidence is what we're already seeing. More Australians are using services like Blua to access support earlier, navigate complexity and make more informed decisions about their health.

None of this can happen without collaboration.

No single organisation can solve the challenges facing healthcare alone. Not hospitals. Not clinicians. Not insurers. Not governments. Not technology companies.

Customers expect all of us to work together around them.

The challenge is that while customer expectations are changing, many parts of our health system are still designed around a different era of healthcare - built around episodes, institutions and locations, rather than journeys, continuity and outcomes.

In its early stages, Blua is showing us that better healthcare happens across a connected journey. It happens across primary care, specialist care, mental health support, hospital care, rehabilitation and recovery. It happens at home, in communities and through digital channels.

What I’ve seen consistently while working within the healthcare sector is that the best outcomes occur when organisations stop thinking about ownership of the patient journey and start thinking about stewardship of the patient experience.

This is how we build trust in the care the system provides.

Trust is becoming one of the most important currencies in healthcare – and it’s under pressure.

Australians paid more than $1.3 billion in out-of-pocket medical costs in 2024. Affordability is no longer just a financial issue; it is increasingly an access issue and a health outcome issue^[2].

Behind every one of those statistics is a person – a parent, a partner, a son or daughter. Perhaps someone we know, perhaps someone sitting around our own kitchen table.

Their decision could be about delaying treatment, it could be anxiety about paying a bill, they could be questioning whether they can afford to continue or simply trying to navigate the system while already dealing with the emotional burden of being unwell.

The stakes are high. If we fail to make healthcare easier to navigate, confidence will continue to decline. People will delay care. Conditions will become more complex. Costs will continue to rise. And trust in the system will come under increasing pressure.

This matters a lot to us and it’s why we believe we have responsibility not only to support our customers, but to help shape the future of a more connected healthcare system.

Yet our policy and funding settings do not always make it easy to deliver the kinds of experiences at scale that I’ve been talking about.

If private health is to remain trusted and relevant over the next decade, it cannot remain simply a financing mechanism. It must become better co-ordinated, more preventative and more customer led. If it does not evolve, participation, relevance and trust in the category will all come under growing pressure.

That means helping people stay healthier for longer, not simply paying claims after they become unwell.

It’s why we are advocating for a new phase of private health insurance reform.

Not reform for its own sake, but reform that helps create the system we see is essential for the future. One that is a stronger and more sustainable health system. We believe in reform that lifts participation, improves productivity and strengthens partnerships across the sector.

Because if we want more than 45% of Australians^[3] to continue choosing private health insurance, we need to ensure it delivers value, trust and experiences that feel relevant to the way people live, enhancing support for younger Australians and people of working age. Participation delivers measurable affordability – a 3-5% lift in participation equates to around 380,000 to 640,000 more Australians insured, spreading the cost and slowing premium growth^[4].

So, if we want the system to remain sustainable, we need to create greater flexibility for new models of care that improve outcomes. And we need to reduce unnecessary pressure on hospitals – to improve productivity. Without flexibility, and a modern way forward, the system will remain under stress despite better alternatives existing.

One of the clearest examples is Hospital in the Home.

It represents a different philosophy of care, one that starts with a simple question: what is best for the patient? Not, where has care traditionally been delivered? Supported by clinicians, enabled by technology and focused on outcomes rather than location.

Evidence shows that clinically appropriate care delivered at home can support faster recovery, improve productivity and achieve outcomes that are as good as, or better than, equivalent inpatient care. It can also reduce the cost of delivering care by between 18 and 45 per cent compared with equivalent inpatient treatment^[5].

Customers want this. Providers are demonstrating it can work. The challenge now is making it easier to scale.

The same principle sits behind programs like MoreGoodDays. Why wait until someone reaches surgery if earlier intervention may achieve a better health outcome? Why wait until somebody reaches crisis if multidisciplinary support can help sooner? Why organise care around settings when we can organise it around people?

These are questions about customer experience. They are questions about sustainability. They are questions about outcomes.

What gives me hope is that we do not need to invent the future. Many of these models already exist. Our challenge now is to create the policy settings that allow these models to scale. And that will require collaboration and partnership between providers, insurers, governments and everyone in this room.

Ultimately, this speech is not about technology. It is not about apps. And it is not even about health insurance.

It is about giving customers the confidence to take the first step. Confidence to know where to turn. And the reassurance that someone is helping connect the pieces. It is about the role all players in the system have to work together to be the stewards of the patient experience.

Rhys did not need somebody to make decisions for him. He needed to understand the options and pathways and the confidence to follow it.

Not more complexity. Not more fragmentation.

Because when people have certainty, they act earlier, outcomes improve and trust grows.

That is the opportunity in front of us. And that is why Bupa is committed to being more than a payer. We want to be a healthcare partner helping Australians navigate their health journey with greater confidence, helping co-ordinate care across the system and working alongside providers, governments and communities to build a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system for the future.

If we can achieve that together, we will do more than improve the experience of healthcare.

We will improve the health of Australians.

Thank you.

^{[1] MoreGoodDays® at home back pain program | Bupa
[2] Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) 2025, Quarterly private health insurance membership and benefits summary – December 2024, APRA, Sydney
[3] Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), Quarterly Private Health Insurance Membership and Benefits Summary – March 2026
[4] Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), Quarterly private health insurance membership and benefits summary – March 2026
[5] 20230523_PHA-Report_Reforming-out-of-hospital-care.pdf}

Australians who took proactive steps to manage their mental health such as talking to friends and family, seeking professional support or speaking to a healthcare provider, took an average of two fewer days off work each year. Around 70 per cent of Australian respondents said they wished they had taken earlier action before or during a major life event.

Bupa Healthcare Services Managing Director, Guneet Sawhney said: “We often spend a lot of time preparing financially and practically for life’s biggest moments, but give far less thought to the impact they can have on our mental health.

“What stands out in this research is how many people wish they had sought support earlier. Whether becoming a parent, caring for a loved one, or coping with loss, our mental wellbeing shapes how we experience those moments,” Mr Sawhney said.

The research is a clear signal to employers that major life events don’t stop at the workplace door. Helping employees access mental health support earlier can protect wellbeing and reduce the impact on productivity, absence and performance.

“At our Mindplace mental health clinics, we want to help people take a proactive approach to their mental health support. By making support easier to recognise and access, we can help more people navigate life’s biggest moments with greater confidence and resilience,” Mr Sawhney said.

Respondents globally who had experienced one or more major life events reported reduced concentration at work and difficulty focusing (53%), emotional overwhelm (69%) and lower confidence (52%), all indicators of presenteeism that contribute to lower overall economic productivity. These findings highlight a clear opportunity to improve mental wellbeing and workplace productivity by encouraging proactive mental health support before and during major life events.

Commenting on the findings, Liam Daly, Senior Economist at Cebr, said: “Life's biggest moments, the joyful ones and the difficult ones alike, rarely stay confined to our personal lives. They follow us into work too, often in ways that are easy to underestimate.

“Drawing on primary research across multiple national markets, we set out to measure how much these moments disrupt working life, and what that disruption is actually worth,” Mr Daly said.

“The findings are significant and point to a key factor shaping the scale of the cost for any given person: preparation. People who take proactive steps to support their mental and physical health around these moments tend to see a smaller dip in productivity than those who don’t.

“Together, the findings offer a clearer picture of just how much major life events can affect people and their ability to focus at work, and how much of the resulting personal and economic impact could be reduced if people had the chance to prepare for them,” he added.

Mindplace centres offer psychology sessions, alongside complimentary physical allied health services such as occupational therapy and exercise physiology in recognition that mental health is complex, and people often need more than one discipline to achieve better wellbeing outcomes.

To learn more about our Mindplace clinics, visit us here.

“Because oral health is closely linked to overall health, collaboration between patients, dentists and prescribing doctors is key. Making sure your dental team knows about any medications you’re taking allows us to provide the best possible care and help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems,” Dr Dohlad said

This might include more frequent check-ups, tailored oral care routines, or strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your enamel.

“GLP1 medications aren’t going anywhere, so we need to make sure patients are equipped with the right information,” Dr Dohlad said

For more information about Bupa Dental visit here.

^{[1] Bupa Pulse Check
[2] Semaglutide-associated hyposalivation: A report of case series - PubMed
[3] Making Impact in Health Systems Research}

This acquisition will add Partnered Health’s national network of general practices, skin cancer, allied health and mental health clinics, alongside its corporate health and wellbeing services, to Bupa’s growing health services footprint across Australia.

Subject to regulatory approval, the acquisition will include 68 primary care clinics and three urgent care clinics, in addition to corporate health and wellbeing services delivered through the Jobfit, Baseline Onsite, New View Psychology, NewPsych Psychology, and Australian EAP brands.

Bupa APAC CEO, Nick Stone, said acquiring Partnered Health’s established health network is a natural next step for Bupa as it continues to expand its health provision network and grow its multidisciplinary health offerings.

“As a diversified health care provider, we’re focused on what we can do to better meet the health and wellbeing needs of Australians, as well as help support the careers of the GPs and clinicians that deliver that care,” Mr Stone said.

“We’ve been steadily growing our national network of medical centres, urgent care and mental health clinics to help provide easier access to essential, primary health care services for all Australians.

“At the same time, we’ve been investing in the delivery of health and wellbeing services to our corporate and government customers, offering deep experience and preventative health solutions that reduce risks and drive better health outcomes in the workplace.

“Bringing Partnered Health’s services into the Bupa network is an exciting opportunity to grow a well-established primary care and corporate wellbeing network that is backed by a strong team dedicated to supporting the health of their local communities.”

Bupa currently operates 32 Bupa Medical and 13 Mindplace clinics, alongside its dental, optical and hearing services across Australia. Bupa’s network, alongside Blua, our digital health platform, will enable us to expand access to everyday care and the data shows Australians are using it. Last year, 367,000 customers used a Blua service, with usage growing strongly year on year.

“Our ambition is to improve patient care through prevention and more personalised pathways, while preserving consumer choice and clinical independence. We know when people get care earlier, health outcomes improve and costs fall. That’s good for patients and Australia’s healthcare system,” Mr Stone said.

“Our Bupa clinics are open to everyone, not just Bupa members. We continue to support full clinical autonomy for doctors and respect the critical role they play in helping to achieve better health outcomes for patients.”

Partnered Health Managing Director and CEO Dr Malcolm Parmenter said today’s announcement was an important milestone in the evolution of the Partnered Health business.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Partnered Health to continue to deliver high quality healthcare outcomes for our patients and customers. The combination with Bupa will enable us to continue to support our clinicians and our people while growing our clinic footprint and expanding our service offering,” Dr Parmenter said.

“Importantly for all of us, Bupa is committed to that same clinical autonomy that our clinicians have always enjoyed at Partnered Health.”

The acquisition is subject to ACCC and Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval, and other customary conditions.

This hospital partnership supports innovative models of care including shorter length of stay where clinically appropriate supported by hospital in the home and investment in technology.

The partnership reflected a shared commitment to balance access to high-quality care with the rising cost pressures facing Australia’s health system.

Cabrini Health Chief Executive Sue Williams said: "Partnerships like this are essential to ensuring the community has access to the healthcare services they need.

"Bupa’s leadership in advocating for innovative models of care such as Hospital in the Home services, aligns closely with our own vision. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Bupa and working alongside our medical staff to deliver world-class care for Victorian patients," she said.

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said the ongoing partnership put patients first and ensured they have choice in their healthcare.

“We know cost of living pressures are front of mind for Australians, which makes it more important than ever for health insurers and hospitals to work together to keep healthcare affordable,” Ms Williams said.

“Together, we’re supporting modern models of care and investing in technology that improves patient outcomes, while improving access, reducing out-of-pocket costs and strengthening the sustainability of the private health system.

“We’re proud to continue offering certainty for our joint customers and patients while supporting the delivery of high-quality care.”

This Modern Slavery Statement has been prepared in accordance with the Australian Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth), covering the reporting period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025. Throughout the year, we improved our approach to managing and responding to modern slavery risk. In the reporting period, we:

• Launched our new third-party governance system, requiring suppliers of potentially higher modern slavery risk to complete a modern slavery due diligence questionnaire at onboarding;

• Uplifted our governance of modern slavery risk, including through the new modern slavery standard and enhanced reporting to Bupa Australia management;

• Refreshed our modern slavery training module training module to better illustrate what modern slavery is and how it can occur; and

• Continued to collaborate within our sector, with civil society and, newly, with the Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner’s Office.

We are committed to taking steps to continuously improve our response to modern slavery. In 2026, we are focused on governance; strengthening supplier due diligence; further educating our people; and collaborating internally and with external modern slavery experts.

Effectively tackling modern slavery requires strategic collaboration between industry, government, civil society and people with lived experience. Bupa Australia is committed to playing our part to help make a better world for all.

“At the same time, cybercrime and scams continue to increase, leaving many Australians financially exposed.

“This is a cover that protects your phone and your digital life together, giving people real peace of mind when things go wrong.

“At Bupa, we’re focused on putting customers first, and as more Australians use their phones to manage their health, we’re adapting our products to better support and protect them."

Ms Young said while the new insurance product could help customers get back online faster, Australians should still take steps to safeguard their digital identity. 

“Your digital ID is just as valuable as your wallet, so simple steps like using strong passwords, staying alert to scams and taking basic precautions can help protect yourself,” she said. 

“When it comes to your phone, simple steps like using a quality protective case and a screen protector can go a long way in preventing costly damage.” 

Unlike most phone insurance currently available in Australia, Bupa’s cover is not tied to buying a new phone, does not lock customers into long contracts and can cover both new and existing phones, including accidental damage away from the home. 

Customers can insure a single phone with cyber cover for $19.99 per month, or cover up to four phones under one household policy for $49.99 per month. Policies include protection against online fraud, with financial reimbursement for stolen funds and out of pocket expenses, alongside online preventative cyber care support services. 

TOP MOBILE PHONE CLAIMS

1. Back glass damage
2. Display bleed / panel damage
3. Touch / screen unresponsive
4. Front screen crack
5. Device no power
6. Device bent / structural damage
7. Camera damage (crack, chip, fault)
8. Charging / USB port failure
9. Water damage

Bupa Asia Pacific Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Roger Sharp said the program reflects Bupa’s commitment to improving access to preventative healthcare for people facing disadvantage.

“Through the Bupa Foundation, we’re proud to support vendors with access to flu vaccinations that can help protect against infection and support their wellbeing as the colder months approach.”

“The Big Issue plays a vital role in creating pathways out of hardship by helping people rebuild their independence through meaningful work. Providing free and easy access to flu vaccinations through visits from our nurses along with vouchers is just one small way we can lend a hand,” Mr Sharp said.

Government data suggests flu causes about 3,500 deaths 18,000 hospitalisations in Australia with those living with disadvantage having a higher risk

CEO of The Big Issue Steven Persson said the program remains an important way to keep vendors safe. 

“As we enter flu season, it’s important that every member of our community has access to vaccinations. For our community of Big Issue vendors, staying safe is a priority, especially as they’re out in the community every day and, during winter, often out in the cold. Supporting vendors to stay healthy helps them continue their work, maintain their independence and keep showing up for their customers and communities. 

“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary in June this year, we’re grateful for the ongoing partnerships and initiatives like this from Bupa, which have supported vendors’ health and wellbeing for many years,” Mr Persson said. 

Since 1996, The Big Issue has supported vendors across Australia to earn a meaningful income, build confidence and strengthen connections with their communities, with almost $42 million earned by vendors to date.

Bupa is encouraging Australians to support The Big Issue by purchasing a copy of the magazine, and to book their own flu vaccination with their local GP or pharmacy to help protect themselves and their loved ones this winter. Bupa has announced 40,000 free flu shots for its health insurance customers and eligible health services customers and patients at Bupa Medical Centres.

For more information about The Big Issue, visit here.

For more information about the Bupa Foundation, visit here.

^{[1] Influenza immunisation and Provider information for the 2026 Free Flu Vaccination Program | Queensland Health}

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said: “Because of the commitments we have made and the work we have undertaken, we are now partnering with First Nations-led health organisations to deliver improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. We have nearly doubled our procurement spend with First Nations businesses and suppliers across the duration of the 2023-2026 RAP through a dedicated First Nations Procurement Strategy.”  

“While we have increased the number of our employees who identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person from 0.5% to 0.99%, this is an area where we know we have more work to do,” Mr Stone said.

Bupa’s First Nations Employment Strategy has focused on increasing recruitment, retention, and progression of First Nations employees, and we have continued to expand cultural learning across our workforce. This will continue to be a focus throughout this new RAP. 

Our 2026-2029 RAP 

For the next three years, we aim to build on this foundation to help elevate the voices and needs of First Nations communities, to advocate within our sphere of influence and to push ourselves to go beyond what is expected of an organisation with a Stretch RAP. 

Mr Stone said: “Building on the strong foundations achieved to date, this RAP will strive to foster equity and equality through four new key areas: supporting community-led health care, advocating for better health outcomes, delivering strategic employment and engagement and supporting First Nations businesses. These focus areas align with, and go beyond, the expected deliverables of a Stretch RAP.

“Bupa remains committed to its position that First Nations voices should be heard, and that community health must be directed and delivered with First Nations experts and practitioners. To that end, this RAP has a stronger focus on advocacy, as we look at how Bupa can use its size and scale to help elevate the voices of First Nations peoples, communities and health organisations,” Mr Stone said.

Bupa also continues to support the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and we continue to listen and be guided by community on how we can help deliver on its intent in the future.  

To read Bupa's Reconciliation Action Plan click here.

Developed in partnership with lead creative agency 2045, the platform is built on a simple but powerful truth: Australians are already putting significant effort into managing their health, often across multiple dimensions of their lives, but often feel like they’re going it alone.

“Everything for Health” reframes Bupa’s role as more than a health insurer, positioning the business as a partner that supports people across their whole health - from prevention and everyday wellbeing, through to treatment, recovery and ongoing care.

The integrated campaign launches nationally across TV, online, social, out-of-home, owned channels and retail environments, reflecting the reality that Australians are already putting significant effort into their health, and Bupa is committed to matching that effort with connected support across the journey.

The campaign also represents a broader shift internally for Bupa, bringing together the organisation’s different business units under a single enterprise platform.

Naomi Driver, General Manager of Brand & Marketing at Bupa, said the platform reflects a more connected and contemporary view of health.

“Health isn’t one-dimensional, and neither are our customers. Australians are juggling physical health, mental wellbeing, family care, prevention, recovery and everyday habits, often all at once,” said Driver.

‘Everything for Health’ recognises the effort people are already putting into their health and reinforces Bupa’s role in supporting them across every stage and every aspect of that journey.”

Tim Evans, Founder of 2045, said the ambition was to create a platform expansive enough to unite the full Bupa ecosystem, while still feeling deeply human.

“A lot of health advertising focuses on moments of crisis or idealised outcomes. What we found was that people already feel like they’re trying hard to look after themselves and those around them,” said Evans.

“This platform acknowledges that effort. It positions Bupa as the company backing Australians across the whole spectrum of health, not just a single transaction or service.”

The launch comes as Australians increasingly take a more proactive and holistic approach to their health, spanning physical, mental and preventative wellbeing.

The new platform will roll out progressively across Bupa’s customer experience, communications and services throughout 2026.

Rory Heffernan, CEO of Atomic 212, said the media strategy was designed to ensure the platform showed up in the moments where health is lived every day.

“To match the scale of ‘Everything for Health’, our approach was about more than reach alone. We wanted the campaign to appear in the everyday environments, behaviours and moments where Australians are already engaging with their health,” said Heffernan.

“The strategy was designed to make Bupa feel present in a more connected and contextual way, reinforcing the idea that health isn’t confined to one moment or one interaction, but shaped by the many decisions people make every day.”

Tony has chaired Bupa’s ANZ Board since January 2024 and will continue in that role following his appointment to the Bupa Board.

Tony brings extensive leadership and financial services experience across Australia and New Zealand. He was a Partner and CEO of EY Oceania and served on EY’s Asia Pacific and global leadership teams. He currently serves on the boards of Allianz Australia, where he is Audit Committee Chair, Mercer Superannuation (Australia) Limited, Kieser Australia and E&P Financial Group. He is also a member of the Melbourne Cricket Club Committee, the Board of Management of the Melbourne Theatre Company and the Council of Monash University and is a Trustee of the Collier Charitable Fund.

He holds a Bachelor of Economics, a Master of Business Administration (Executive), and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance & Investment, and is a Graduate and Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is a recipient of Monash University’s Distinguished Alumni Award, a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australia.

Don Robert, CBE, Bupa Board Chair said: “We are delighted to welcome Tony to the Bupa Group Board. His appointment will enhance the financial services experience on the Board, particularly with his experience in Australia, Bupa’s largest market, as well as further strengthening the relationship with the Bupa ANZ Board.”

This coincides with new research, which surveyed 1000 Aussies, and highlighted the impact creativity has on one’s health and wellbeing including:

• 64% feeling relaxed and calm when participating in activities like art. 

• 79% say having a creative outlet helps them better process their emotions. 

• 88% recognise their creative hobbies like drawing, doodling, painting or crafts positively impact health and wellbeing.

• 75% saying they would benefit from more opportunities to be creative in daily life.

• Lack of time and tiredness were the biggest barriers of not participating in creative activities.

Weightman’s contribution to the campaign draws on his experience of navigating significant injury setbacks throughout his AFL career. During long recovery periods, he turned to drawing and painting as a creative outlet, producing artwork that reflected his rehabilitation journey and the life he was working towards returning to.

His piece for the Express Your Health campaign, titled Patella, captures that goal, portraying his desire to be back surfing, playing football and feeling fit again.

 He said the canvas was critical to his mental health while recovering from injury.

"Over my career I’ve faced significant injury challenges, most recently a complex knee injury requiring five procedures. During long recovery periods, I turned to drawing and painting, as a way to visualise recovery, and reflect on the life I wanted to return to, supported by my team,” he said.

“Art lets me express what words can’t. It gives me focus, calm, and escape, helping me process health challenges and stay positive throughout. It means a lot to me to be a part of this Bupa campaign and help to demonstrate the connection between art and health for others to see."

The campaign, which launches in Australia today with digital billboards in Melbourne and a light projection in Sydney, celebrates creativity as a powerful way to share health experiences and encouraging people to open up so they can feel less alone and empowered to seek care.

Bupa Marketing and Brand General Manager Naomi Driver said: “Our research shows how creative activities like drawing or painting can help people unwind and make sense of difficult moments, even in a short space of time. This campaign encourages people to share their health stories creatively, because when words are hard to find, expressing yourself can help you connect, cope and feel more in control of your health.

As part of the global campaign, one of Europe’s largest hand-painted murals has been unveiled in London which is equivalent to 22 double decker buses. The project brings together artists and storytellers from around the world, each sharing a personal health story through their artwork.

Alongside Weightman, contributors include Olympic diver Tom Daley, and renowned artists such as Sophie Tea, Yinka Ilori and Coco Dávez. The campaign represents stories spanning fertility, sickle cell, diabetes, anxiety, ageing, grief, and more, showing how art can express the physical, mental and emotional sides of health.

Bupa is inviting people around the world to share their health story through creativity and art at bupa.com/express where it will become part of a global collection. To help inspire people, the site includes tips and advice on how to start a creative activity.

Bupa APAC CEO, Nick Stone said investing in prevention, early intervention and community-based care is key to building a health system that is more accessible, affordable and sustainable. 

“We’re at an inflection point in healthcare which means it’s time to build on this momentum through further customer-centred reform to deliver a genuinely sustainable and affordable health system for all Australians,” Mr Stone said. 

“Making Medicare Urgent Care Clinics a permanent part of our system, alongside additional investment in aged care, are all important steps in the right direction. The investments in public and primary care, dental care, and mental health will help protect and safeguard our health system so that it can better support the growing health and wellbeing needs of Australians.  

“But, to future proof our world-class health system for generations to come, we need to recognise that we have to invest in both the public and private systems so they can work seamlessly together.” 

Mr Stone said Bupa looked forward to more detail on the consultations proposed by the Government for further reforms to improve the private healthcare system. We want to work with the Government to invest in and improve the private health system to ensure it is modern, relevant, and sustainable for all Australians, for now, and into the future. 

Removing PHI rebates for Australians aged 65 and above 
 

As a business that provides care to older Australians, we share Private Healthcare Australia’s concerns that removing rebates for Australians aged 65 and above may have unintended consequences for participation and the overall sustainability of the system, particularly as our public system remains under pressure. 

Reform should focus on strengthening the sustainability of private health insurance by improving affordability and accessibility for all Australians, regardless of age. 

Supporting access to care through Urgent Care Clinics 
 

Bupa welcomed the Government’s commitment to invest $1.8 billion over five years to help make Medicare Urgent Care Clinics a permanent part of Australia’s health system. Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are an important part of the broader healthcare system, helping to triage and treat non-emergency conditions outside hospital emergency departments, improving patient flow and allowing hospitals to focus on more acute and complex care. 

Mr Stone said: “Medicare Urgent Care Clinics play a critical role in ensuring people can access the care they need, when they need it, and in the right setting.  

“As an operator of a growing number of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics around Australia, Bupa is proud to partner with Government to support communities around Australia to ensure people can get the right care at the right time, while relieving pressure on local hospital emergency departments.”   

Building capacity in aged care 
 

Mr Stone said the Government’s continued focus on strengthening the aged care sector, which includes greater flexibility in how room prices are set and a $606.5 million investment to deliver more residential aged care beds, was an important step towards meeting the growing demand of an ageing population but more needed to be done.  

“As one of Australia’s largest aged care providers, we know we need to support the sustainable growth of residential care capacity as without this, older Australians, especially those in regional Australia, will not be able to access care when and where they need it most,” he said. 

“We look forward to working closely with Government and industry partners to help deliver the services and support required to allow the sustainable growth of the sector.” 

Continuing to support veterans and their families 
 

The additional $583.4 million to implement recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, along with $169.7 million for allied health services for veterans, is a positive step towards improving access to support services for veterans. 

Reviewing specialist fees 
 

We welcome the Federal Government’s review of specialist fees which will enhance transparency for patients, supporting improved financial literacy, and promoting greater choice, access and affordability in healthcare. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with the medical community to ensure these goals are achieved in a balanced and effective manner. 

Hospital in the home allows people who need acute care to be treated at home or in another non-hospital setting, rather than staying in hospital. These services are already well established in many countries and clinically proven, but access remains limited within Australia.

One of the biggest barriers to expanding hospital in the home is the current Medicare telehealth settings which prevent doctors from claiming Medicare for virtual consultations for patients receiving hospital-level care at home. This discourages referrals and reduces access to these programs even though virtual check-ins are now common and used by clinicians.

Data from Australian hospital in the home programs has demonstrated that it can be a safer, more appealing option than staying in hospital, with fewer deaths, fewer returns to hospital and patients saying they would choose to be treated at home again.

Catholic Health Australia and Bupa are recommending the adoption of five-point reform plan to make hospital in the home accessible for more Australians, including: 

• Creating new Medicare telehealth items that allow specialists to support admitted hospital in the home patients while remaining responsible for their ongoing hospital care.
• Prioritising services such as intravenous antibiotics, infection treatment, complex wound care and hospital-level palliative care, which are already operating successfully across Australia and are well suited to home-based care.
• Ensuring Hospital in the home care is held to the same safety and quality standards as care delivered in a hospital, including national accreditation and reporting against recognised quality measures. Services should already meet these standards or be able to do so within 12 months, supported by hospital in the home specific guidance and audit tools to clearly demonstrate compliance.
• Clear minimum service expectations are needed to ensure patients receive hospital quality care at home, including daily nursing, regular medical review, 24-hour escalation support and access to hospital level treatments when clinically required, including for palliative and end-of-life care.
• Hospital in the home funding, including a default benefit, should cover the real costs of delivering safe care at home, including nursing, medical reviews, afterhours support, travel and consumables, with extra support for culturally appropriate care while major infrastructure costs remain funded through existing systems.

Catholic Health Australia Director of Health Policy Dr Katharine Bassett said: “We know our patients want more hospital in the home care. It allows them to stay in the comfort of their own homes and delivers better outcomes, while also taking pressure off the strained hospital system, which is vital as our population ages.

“Unfortunately, Australia is lagging well behind comparable nations such as the UK and Canada when it comes to offering care at home. The good news is the solutions are clear - the government must fix funding arrangements to allow hospital in the home care to thrive."  

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said with clinical approval and guidance, more Australians could safely receive hospital care in their own homes.

“It’s time to move forward and properly fund hospital in the home services which we know improve patient choice, deliver care that Australians increasingly want and expect, and importantly ease pressure on hospitals,” she said.

“These services are already delivering safe, high-quality outcomes and they should be supported with a clear framework to grow. Strong clinical oversight should remain central to any expansion to give patients real choice without compromising safety or quality.”

To read more about our recommendations and our position paper, click here. 

The Bupa Foundation has supported the Legacy Club of Brisbane since 2024, providing funding for programs that deliver long-term social, emotional and financial assistance to the families of Australia’s veterans. This is part of Bupa’s support for the physical and mental health and wellbeing of Australian Defence Force (Defence) members and active reservists, along with veterans, their families and the communities around them.

Bupa ADF Health Services Director, Peter Livanes said it’s vital we take a holistic view when it comes to how we support the physical and mental wellbeing of our Defence community.

“Bupa is investing in a connected network of healthcare services across Australia that strengthens support for the entire Defence community, including families, veterans and the regional communities in which Defence operates. By expanding access to primary care, urgent care and mental health in particular, we are contributing to stronger health systems that support Defence capability and long-term wellbeing of its community.

"Across our organisation, we have a clear purpose to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of our Defence community, under all conditions and in any location required around Australia. In keeping with this purpose, I’m proud the Bupa Foundation has once again provided support to essential organisations like the Legacy Club of Brisbane,” Mr Livanes said.

The Legacy Club of Brisbane’s Season’s program aims at providing a safe, stigma-free space that engages People with A Disability through social activities while also promoting the learning of new skills through art and musical workshops.

Legacy Brisbane, Chief Executive Officer, Brendan Cox said Legacy is truly grateful for the wonderful support of the Bupa Foundation who have been providing enriching social programs for our clients with disabilities for several years.

“These programs are critical to building community, confidence and life-long friendships for these vulnerable members of the Legacy Family,” Mr Cox said.

Bupa is also committed to a diverse workplace and champions female leadership across its business, including within the Defence industry through support for the Women in Defence Network.  Bupa is also a proud employer of veterans as a participant in the Prime Minister’s Veterans' Employment Commitment, actively recruiting former Defence members who bring unique skillsets and lived experience to our organisation.

“With veterans serving in clinical and operational roles throughout Bupa, we have a deep understanding across our business about Defence capability needs and culture. We serve members across more than 50 on-base health services around Australia and in complex and high tempo environments such as domestic national disaster situations and large-scale training exercises,” Mr Livanes said.

Since 2019, Bupa has delivered an integrated healthcare system that supports Defence capability and ensures ADF members are ready to deploy in times of conflict and crisis.

“Andrew has spearheaded an incredible transformation of our aged care business, alongside the team, delivering customer-centred outcomes and driving efficiencies during a notably challenging period for both our business and the sector,” Mr Stone said.

“Today, we have strong customer satisfaction, based on our resident and family surveys, and a business that continues to grow to meet rising demand for quality residential aged care.

“I want to thank Andrew for his significant contribution and dedication to Bupa. He leaves the business in a strong position for the future, with an experienced team focused on delivering high quality care for residents.”

Jayant Krishnan, currently Finance Director, BVAC Australia, will be appointed Interim Managing Director, BVAC and Jayant and Andrew will work closely over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition for the team. 

Mr Stone said Jayant has led the BVAC Finance team for almost four years and had played a broader leadership role across the business since Andrew stepped in to lead Customer and Strategy at Bupa. Jayant has been at Bupa since 2010 and has held a number of senior finance roles. He is a chartered accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Melbourne.

The 2026 Bupa Pulse Check confirms social media is the go-to for parents, who are more likely than non-parents to trust, act on, and even spend money based on health content they view online which can lead to adverse health outcomes with no clinical oversight. The data shows Aussies are not just scrolling past online health advice, they are acting on it including three in 10 having purchased a health product influenced by online content, highlighting the growing role platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and tools such as AI play in everyday health decisions. 

The research also revealed almost four in 10 are believing bite-sized health content online helps them make healthier choices while more than a third of people have changed a health habit as a result of social media content with many global influencers having millions of followers. 

The national survey of 2000 Australians, conducted by Quantum Market Research in conjunction with Bupa, also revealed when it comes to mental health, social media is accessed almost at the same rate as clinical professionals such as psychologists and GPs when it comes to providing help. 

The annual Bupa Pulse Check showed 57% of Australians rate their mental health as good or excellent but how they access support is becoming more varied. In the past year, Aussies have turned to family and friends (34%), GPs (29%), psychologists or psychiatrists (13%), as well as digital options including social media (18%), AI tools (10%) and mental health apps (9%). 

A new theme emerging in this year’s report is the impact cost-of-living is having on health, with one in three saying cost is impacting making healthy choices with buying fresh produce, family health activities and preventive health care topping the list. 

Other key findings of the latest Bupa Pulse Check, which checks-in on attitudes and behaviours towards people’s health and wellbeing, include:

• 70% of Australians currently employed say they have experienced burnout at some point in their working life, up 2% on 2024
• 42% of Australians say they are finding it difficult to manage their health and wellbeing, the first increase in three years, with cost remaining biggest barrier  
• 33% say their quality of life has improved over the past 12 months, the highest across the past four years
• 63% say they would be likely to consider predictive medicine in future, compared to 35% in 2022
• 57% say they want to lose weight, and while exercise and dieting are primary approaches, interest in weight loss drugs continues to grow, especially amongst women in their 40s
• 72% of Australians are concerned about developing a chronic illness, with cancer the leading worry, followed by backpain and heart disease/stroke
• 51% report they are currently participating in at least one fitness activity (up 2% from 2024)
• Most Aussies are taking steps to improve their mental health, led by healthy eating (49%), exercise (47%) and spending time with family or friends (43%)

Bupa Chief Health Officer Dr Nic Woods said the research showed Aussies were choosing simple, everyday health habits over extreme fitness trends to maintain their health and wellbeing. 

“Digital health is now firmly embedded in how we look after our health,” Dr Woods said. 

“Australians aren’t swapping doctors for social media, they’re using digital platforms and tools as a first step and as an accessible, everyday support layer alongside traditional care. 

“Digital health boosts access, convenience, efficiency, and opportunities to layer on greater personalisation and more engaging prevention. However, as a health sector we all have a role to play to help ensure people are getting trusted health advice, not misinformation. 

“This year’s Bupa Pulse Check shows real signs of resilience, despite external pressures, with one in three saying their quality of life has improved over the past year, the strongest result we have seen across four years. It’s also positive to see the small, but meaningful gains in mental health and physical activity.”

Quantum Market Research Managing Director Richard Frost said cost-of-living pressures were reshaping how Australians prioritised their health. 

“People want to stay well and prevent illness, but affordability, time and access are now shaping how and whether they can act on those intentions,” Mr Frost said. 

“The rise in interest in predictive and preventative healthcare shows Australians are thinking differently about health and these approaches are increasingly front of mind. People want to get ahead of illness, not just react to it, especially when almost three in four are concerned about developing a chronic condition.” 

Other key findings include: 

• 58% would like doctors to collect and share health data electronically with allied health professionals.
• 60% have used telehealth in the past year, showing it remains a mainstream access channel.
• One in three Australians agree specialists should use AI to diagnose, but concerns about technology’s impact on mental wellbeing persist.

Dr Woods said Bupa was continuing to invest in improving access to care. 

“If we want healthier families and communities, we have to make it easier for parents to look after their own health as well and that’s why we have introduced our digital platform Blua, providing access to telehealth services, expanding our GP and primary care network and Mindplace mental health clinics,” he said.

To read the latest Bupa Pulse Survey, click here.

Approximately 453,000 Australians are blind or have low vision, with this number projected to increase to 564,000 by 2030[1]. Many are unaware of the opportunities or optical solutions available to engage in recreational or competitive sport.

Bupa Optical’s Head of Clinical Management, Karen Makin said optometrists have a key role in enabling people to live their lives to the fullest, but specialised training is needed to fill the skills gap.

“Along with boosting opportunities for social connections, the physical and mental health benefits of playing sport are well documented however understanding eligibility criteria for engaging in Para sport is not as well understood in the industry and amongst the general public.

“Through this partnership with Paralympics Australia, our Optometrists have been given the tools to guide and refer clients into Para sport pathways and provide them with knowledge of any specialised clinical products to support them on their journey,” Karen said.

Bupa is the Official Healthcare Partner of Paralympics Australia, supporting the health and wellbeing of athletes, their families and their training teams. In an exciting era for Para sport, Paralympics Australia has publicly stated its goal for the Australian Paralympic Team to finish on top of Brisbane 2032 medal tally, emulating the feat achieved just once before, at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games.

Paralympics Australia’s General Manager, Classification and Pathways, Melissa Wilson, said this important work with Bupa demonstrates the power of collaboration in breaking down barriers to participation in Para-sport.

“Building on the achievements and performances of our athletes at Milano Cortina 2026, this innovative activation with Bupa Optical ensures we continue to expand pathways in Para sport and strengthen Australia’s talent pipeline for Brisbane 2032 and beyond.””

“Allied health professionals, such as optometrists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, are often the first point of contact for people who could thrive in Para sport. By equipping them with knowledge and referral tools, we’re expanding the entrance to the Paralympic pathway and developing a stronger, deeper talent pipeline.”

“By helping more people with vision impairment understand the possibilities available to them and providing ways to take those first steps into sport, we may not only uncover potential future Paralympians, but open doors for more inclusive and active communities across Australia.”

Vision impaired Winter Paralympian Georgia Gunew, who made her Paralympic debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Games finishing 10^th in the Women’s Giant Slalom and 11^th in the Women’s Slalom with guide Ethan Jackson, said the connection between health professionals and sport can be life changing.

“Sport has completely changed my life. It’s given me a greater sense of confidence and community and opened doors that I didn’t know existed. When I was first introduced to Para sport, it introduced so many new opportunities and people who understood my journey.”

“Health professionals, like optometrists, can play such an important role in helping others take that first step. A simple conversation or referral can be the spark that inspires someone with a vision impairment to discover what they’re capable of.”

Through this initiative, Bupa Optical and Paralympics Australia can also guide individuals who are not eligible for Para sport classification toward alternative sporting and community-based opportunities, ensuring everyone with a visual impairment can find a way to engage in sport.

For more information about Bupa Optical or to find a store visit here.

For more information about Paralympics Australia’s partnership with Bupa visit here.

^{[1] How do you know if you have low vision? | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services}

Infants aged six months to five years, adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face the highest risk from influenza. These groups can access the flu vaccine for free. 

Australians can also reduce their risk of flu by washing their hands regularly, staying home when unwell and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. 

For more information about Bupa’s free flu vaccine offer, which customers can redeem at any Bupa Medical Centre located between Geelong and Townsville click here.

Bupa believes genomics (the study of our genes) can help deliver more personalised care and better health outcomes and we are making careful investments in this area to create choice for our customers. This includes our pharmacogenomic testing proposition, available to our customers which looks at how an individual’s DNA and genes may affect responses to more than 100 medications.

Importantly, this Bill supports Australia’s shift away from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and towards preventive, personalised healthcare for people who choose to use genetic testing to better understand and manage their health.

That is why we were pleased to make a submission to the Senate Economics Legislation Committee supporting the Bill, as we believe it is crucial Australia’s community-rated private health insurance system remains strong, and that people retain control of their own genetic information.

Most recently, Dr Walsh returned to Australia after completing five years as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare in Saudi Arabia, a joint venture between Johns Hopkins International and Aramco. Prior to this, he served as CEO of Cabrini Hospital in Melbourne for 11 years and previously led Alfred Health as CEO for seven years.

He has held executive roles with the Western Australian Department of Health, including Medical Director at Fremantle Hospital, and senior leadership positions within Victoria’s Department of Health supporting the introduction of case mix funding. Internationally, he has held leadership roles with the UK National Health Service in the South East London Strategic Health Authority and also worked in Qatar. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University.

Bupa ANZ Chairman Tony Johnson said: “We are incredibly fortunate to have a Director of Michael’s clinical experience and leadership calibre join the Bupa ANZ Board, and know he will have a significant impact as we continue to support delivery of Bupa’s strategic ambitions across the region.”

“Programs like Try Para Sport give people the chance to try different sports, meet athletes and coaches, and realise there is a pathway for them. That first experience can change everything.” 

The program comes at a time when participation gaps remain significant. According to the Australian Sports Commission’s AusPlay data, only 14% of people with disability participate in sport weekly, compared with around 30% of people without disability. Research from Paralympics Australia also shows 75% of people with disability want to play sport but feel there are limited opportunities to do so. 

Paralympics Australia CEO Cameron Murray said the Bupa Try Para Sport Series plays a crucial role in changing that. 

“Programs like Bupa Try Para Sport help remove barriers and create clear pathways into sport,” Mr Murray said. 

“The results from the 2024 series were incredibly encouraging, with dozens of participants now progressing into the Future Green & Gold pathway. With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, initiatives like this are essential for identifying the next generation of Paralympic athletes.” 

Disability Sports Australia CEO Ayden Shaw said the events are designed to make Para sport accessible for people at all stages of their sporting journey. 

“Bupa Try Para Sport is about creating welcoming environments where people with disability can explore sport without pressure,” Shaw said. 

“For some participants it’s their first experience with Para sport. For others it may be the moment they discover a Para sport they want to pursue seriously. Either way, the goal is to help people connect with local grassroots opportunities and communities that support them.” 

Bupa Chief Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Officer, Roger Sharp said supporting programs that improve access to sport with local grassroots opportunities aligns with Bupa’s broader commitment to health and wellbeing. 

“Sport has the power to improve physical health, mental wellbeing and community connection,” Mr Sharp said. 

“By supporting the Bupa Try Para Sport Series alongside Paralympics Australia and Disability Sports Australia, we’re helping create more opportunities for people with disability to get involved in sport, and potentially uncover the next generation of Paralympic athletes.” 

The 2026 Bupa Try Para Sport Series will begin in Darwin and the Gold Coast on 28th – 29th March, before travelling to Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, Brisbane and Wollongong. 

Participants aged 10 years and above will have the opportunity to try a range of sports including: 

• Wheelchair rugby
• Para rowing
• Wheelchair tennis
• Para athletics
   

People with disability interested in participating can register for their local event here.

The latest government data suggests 19 per cent of participants experienced an injury while playing sport with collision-heavy codes such as AFL and Rugby having more than double the hospitalisation rate of any other recreational sport. Despite these risks, only 36 per cent of Australians wear a mouthguard when playing contact sport, and even fewer wear a mouthguard during training.^[2]

Dr Mark Dohlad, Principal Dental Officer at Bupa Dental, said the start of the junior sport season is a critical moment for parents, warning that many children begin training and games without adequate mouth protection, often using mouthguards that no longer fit.

“Kids’ mouths grow and change quickly, which means a mouthguard that fitted last season may not offer the protection parents assume it does. Too often dentists see preventable injuries occur early in the season or at training, when mouthguards are forgotten or a poorly fitting one shifts on impact, leaving teeth, jaws and soft tissue exposed.”

Dr Dohlad said properly fitted, custom‑made mouthguards remain the most effective defence against sports injuries such as fractured teeth, broken jaws and painful lacerations to the tongue or cheek resulting from impact or inadvertent biting during contact sports.

“While over‑the‑counter ‘boil and bite’ mouthguards are better than nothing, they simply don’t provide the same level of coverage or stability. They’re more likely to loosen or fall out during play, particularly in fast‑moving sports like football, rugby or basketball.

Professionally fitted mouthguards are designed around a player’s individual bite by a dentist, helping them stay firmly in place during both games and training. That fit and quality makes a real difference to confidence on the field and gives parents peace of mind knowing their child has appropriate protection, not just something that looks like protection,” Dr Dohlad said.

Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Members First Ultimate clinics can also get 100 per cent back on standard fitted mouthguards across Bupa’s national network of practices^[3].

“Getting fitted is simple, painless and starts with a short visit for a scan or impression, kids can choose their team colours and a follow‑up appointment ensures the mouthguard fits comfortably and securely… Once that’s taken care of, players can just focus on enjoying the game!” Dr Dohlad said.

For more information about Bupa Members First Ultimate initiative, visit here.

To find a Bupa Dental practice near you visit here.

^{[1] Sports injury in Australia, Causes of sports injuries - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
[2] Mouthguards - Australian Dental Association NSW
[3] In relation to Members First Ultimate dental benefits available to eligible Bupa members, further information can be found here. Benefits will only apply to 1 fitted mouthguard per person and per calendar year. Waiting periods, benefit claiming restrictions, and fund and policy rules apply}

In 2025, Bupa provided healthcare for a record number of customers across its businesses in Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, supporting more than 11 million people, up from 10.6 million the year prior^[1].

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said the results demonstrated that Bupa’s long-term strategy to reinvest back into healthcare was delivering greater value, access and improved health outcomes for its customers.

“We know the future of health is all about greater access, affordability, prevention and personalisation with a balance between virtual and physical health services, and a relentless focus on the customer,” Mr Stone said.

“In 2025, we accelerated our focus on preventative health to meet patient demand including growing our medical centre and Mindplace mental health network, alongside our digital health platform, Blua. This is about providing better choice to meet the changing health and wellbeing needs of our community.

“Building on Bupa’s purpose to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives, our investment in primary care and digital health is central to our long-term connected care strategy.”

Mr Stone said for the past three years, Bupa had grown its market share in Australian Private Health Insurance, with the December quarter showing our market share was 25.6%.

“This shows that more Australians are recognising the value of our products and services, including young people, which helps support private health and reduce pressure on our public health system,” he said.

“In 2025, we provided our Australian customers more than 277,000 ‘no out of pocket’ experiences during hospital stays and saved our customers more than $10 million using Blua’s 24/7 virtual doctor service, Blua Doctors.

“In Australia, we know that cost of living challenges are impacting many of our customers, and with cost pressures increasing across the health care sector, our focus remains on helping people access affordable, high-quality care in the private system.

“We are also working hard to support our private hospital partners and help them navigate challenges across the system and play our part in keeping private health care sustainable.”

Highlights for 2025 include:

• Paying $6.65 billion in hospital and extras benefits to our Australian customers – up from $6.28 billion the previous year.

• Saving customers more than $18.8 million by claiming 100 per cent back (up to yearly limits) on more than 439,000 general dental fillings through our market-leading Members First Ultimate dental initiative.

• Helping more than 20,000 customers across 20 of our healthcare programs.  

• Resolving 69% of consultations in our Blua telehealth service during the first appointment.

• Adding 27 medical centres, now totalling 33, and 10 Mindplace mental health clinics to our Australian Health Services primary care network.

• Receiving recognition in Australian aged care for our Nurse Practitioner‑led Wellness Hubs, intergenerational programs and palliative care innovation.

• Reaching a seven-year high of 95% occupancy in New Zealand aged care.

• Investing more than $15 million in our retirement village and aged care developments at Whitby and Riverstone in New Zealand.
• Achieving an NPS of 83.54 in Health Services.
• Being awarded two new major Hong Kong government contracts and continuing to invest in new clinics and our connected care service proposition.
• We are investing $500 million in renewing our older care homes in Australia.
• And, we purchased 250 hectares of land in Mt Eccles in Australia to establish Bupa’s first ever nature regeneration and decarbonisation project, as part of our Better World strategy.

Revenue in our APAC business increased by 6% to $12.9 billion driven by an increase of 400,000 customers, the expansion of our health provision network and high occupancy in our aged care homes. Underlying profit increased by 10% to $947 million supported by revenue growth and operating efficiencies.

Mr Stone said: “Across our business, we have been working hard to contain costs to help keep premiums down for our customers and reinvest back into the products and services they want.”

Looking ahead, Mr Stone said: “Bupa will continue to make investments and grow the footprint of our medical centres, mental health, dental and optical clinics.

“Our clinics are open to all, both Bupa customers and non-Bupa customers, to make healthcare more accessible for more people in our community. Combining our physical care presence with digital tools like Blua means more Australians can now access primary, preventative, mental health and urgent care when they need it, including out of hours, wherever they live.”

^{[1] Our customer definition now aligns with Bupa’s 3x100 Strategy and includes Associate Business customers. A customer is anyone who chooses a Bupa product or service when alternatives exist.}

Bupa APAC Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Roger Sharp said the donations reflect Bupa’s vision for an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience equity and equality and enjoy longer, healthier and happier lives.

“Supporting First Nations health organisations is a major priority under our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which aims to deliver tangible social, cultural and economic benefits for First Nations peoples around Australia.

“By learning from and alongside these organisations, we also empower our people to deepen their understanding of First Nations cultures, and to reflect on the true histories and ongoing challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, families and communities,” Roger said.

Malpa  CEO Tracey Thompson said partnerships like this help young people make healthy choices and create generational change.

“Support from the Bupa Foundation means a lot to our organisation and the communities we work with in building strong foundations in health, wellbeing, literacy, leadership, and reconciliation,” Tracey said.

Delivered in partnership with local Elders and Aboriginal health workers, Malpa’s Young Doctors Program is a 15-week school-based initiative that supports children through culture, health education and leadership development.

Weenthunga Health Network works with First Nations students from secondary school through to university by delivering mentoring, academic support, wellbeing care and connection to community. 

Deadly Ed Foundation’s Improve Country program embeds Aboriginal knowledge, connection to land and community leadership into everyday learning guided by Aboriginal educators.

As part of its commitment to enhancing mental health outcomes in First Nations communities, Bupa is also supporting seven First Nations delegates from underfunded communities to attend the National Indigenous Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Conference helping to build expertise and leadership in this critical national health priority.

For more information about the Bupa Foundation visit here.

Bupa APAC CEO Nick Stone said since beginning at Bupa in February 2024, Stuart had played an important role in Bupa’s significant growth and strong financial performance across the business.

“Stuart has been part of Bupa during a transformative time as we’ve launched important customer initiatives such as our digital platform, Blua, pharmacogenomics, and our expansion into Medical Centres and Mindplace, our mental health clinics.

“I want to thank Stuart for his contribution to the business, and I’m confident the team is well placed to continue building the momentum he has helped create. I wish him and his family well for the future,” Nick said.

A search is now underway for a new CFO to bring finance leadership capabilities for the next phase of our growth at Bupa.

“We want our customers to know we’ve worked hard to keep this year’s average premium adjustment lower than last year’s, and balance premium increases responsibly to help support our customers when it matters most,” Ms Williams said.

“Our new premium rate means we can continue offering our customers health insurance products that meet their individual and family needs, provide value for money, with low out-of-pocket costs, and some no-gap alternatives, while helping to balancing affordability and sustainability across our sector.

“We know it’s important that we carefully manage our costs to ensure we can continue to make care more accessible, personalised and affordable for our customers. These are practical changes that improve value for our customers today, while also building a stronger and more sustainable system for the future.”

Across 2025, more than 277,000 customers had a no gap experience during their hospital admissions. Bupa customers also saved more than $10 million using our 24/7 virtual doctor service on our digital health platform Blua, which is continuing to expand to provide greater digital health programs and preventative health solutions.

Bupa paid out $6.65 billion in hospital and extras benefits to our Australian customers in 2025 – up from $6.28 billion the previous year. This is one of the highest among the major insurers.

Unlike other types of insurance, health insurance is community-rated, meaning premiums do not change based on individual factors like age, health, fitness or how much someone uses their health cover.

Ms Williams said Bupa proudly continued to have one of the largest hospital networks through our hospital partnerships in Australia and supports its partners by investing in modern health care including new in-hospital treatments, out of hospital care and digital care.

“We have prioritised support for private hospitals and worked alongside our hospital partners to ensure we’re working constructively to address their challenges for our shared patients and customers,” she said.

Bupa will communicate directly with customers about their individual premium adjustments, which can vary depending on the type of cover and what state they live in.

Ms Willams said: “This is also a good time to review your current policy to ensure it meets your current health and wellbeing needs and you’re getting the most value from your health insurance.”

Support options are also available for customers suffering from financial hardship to ensure our customers can continue to access the healthcare services they need.

Spending time outdoors has been proven to be beneficial for reducing myopia risk amongst children however outdoor play is on the decline with separate research noting that 50 per cent of kids reported not being allowed to play outside alone or with friends at various times. Additionally, a quarter of Aussie kids say they need improvement in the opportunities to play outside and hang out with friends.^[1]

Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin said childhood myopia rates have been on the rise, especially in the years following the COVID pandemic, with fundamental changes to children’s lifestyles lingering well beyond lockdowns.

“We continue to see more and more parents coming in to report that their children have been having trouble in the classroom as a result of vision problems.

“While factors such as genetics play a significant role in the development of myopia, the common thread amongst many of these new cases is more time in front of screens and less time spent playing outdoors in natural light, which improves contrast sensitivity, reduces eye fatigue, and stimulates dopamine release in the retina, which helps regulate eye growth,” Karen said.

A 2025 study from Macquarie University found secondary school students averaged 9.03 hours daily on screens, while primary students spent 6.34 hours^[2]. This is despite Government recommendations that for young people aged 5–17 years, it is recommended they have no more than two hours of sedentary recreational screen time per day^[3].

“While there is a growing trend towards more schoolwork being undertaken online or via devices, we are concerned that recreational time has followed suit, with time spent gaming, on social media or watching entertainment on smart devices at the expense of time spent playing outside.

“While physical conditions are often easier for parents to spot, vision problems can be much harder to detect. That’s why we recommend yearly eye-tests for children ahead of the school year to ensure any issues are detected and addressed early,” Karen said.

Along with special purpose glasses and contact lenses to help control myopia progression, other ways Bupa Optometrists can treat myopia include through Orthokeratology. This is a form of vision correction where hard contact lenses are worn overnight while sleeping and are fitted such that they change the shape of the cornea, resulting in clear vision when the lenses are removed in the morning, as well as keeping the progression of myopia in check.

“But we would much prefer a child didn’t get to the stage of needing vision correction and myopia management, so send your children out into the backyard to play,” added Karen.

With cost-of-living pressures affecting many families, parents can rest assured that eye tests are bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders at Bupa Optical.

Visit your local Bupa Optical store to book an eye test or visit here.

^{[1] https://www.playaustralia.org.au/sites/default/files/State%20of%20Play_final.pdf
[2] Gaming addiction starts in primary school as screen time soars: new research | The Lighthouse
[3] Screen time recommendations for children 5-12 years}

Through the Bupa Foundation, $100,000 has been donated to the Australian Red Cross' Emergency Fund to help support frontline efforts, recovery and support and a further $30,000 will be donated to the Salvation Army to assist with their on-the-ground efforts for impacted communities.

Bupa Health Insurance Managing Director Kate Williams said we all had a role to play in supporting those directly impacted by the fires and the surrounding communities.

“Our thoughts are with the people, our customers and those communities affected by the Victorian bushfires, especially those who have lost loved ones, homes, businesses and whose lives have been changed in unimaginable ways,” she said.

“We want our customers to know we are here to support them, and we hope this financial assistance will help take some of their stress away as they begin the difficult recovery and rebuilding process.

“We also want to thank the emergency services for their tireless work, and to all the communities who have rallied together to help and care for each other.”

To be eligible for the Victorian relief fire package, customers must have been a domestic Bupa member on January 6, 2026 and be able to provide us with evidence they have received or can provide confirmation that they will receive Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment issued from the Department of Human Services.

Customers can apply for the bushfire relief package until July 6, 2026 and are encouraged to phone Bupa on 134 135 or email BupaBushfireRelief@bupa.com.au

Following the jointly proposed submissions from the ACCC and Bupa Australia, the Federal Court has approved the orders including an agreed penalty of $35 million.

We remain deeply sorry for these errors and have apologised to our affected customers for the impact this has had on them and their families and have taken actions to ensure this doesn’t occur again.

Bupa Australia has already compensated almost all our impacted customers, and as of November 5, 2025, we have paid back a total of $14.3 million.

We have accepted the Federal Court’s decision and have cooperated fully with the ACCC throughout this process.

Amidst these year-round time pressures, Australians are hurrying to secure healthcare appointments ahead of the festive season, with a notable increase in last-minute bookings for optical, dental, and physiotherapy services as people look to maximise their Extras benefits. Data from Bupa Optical suggests appointments spike 30 per cent in December compared to the rest of the year.

Bupa Health Services Clinical Director Dr Tony MacDermott said our modern, busy lifestyles means that often we relegate health appointments to the ‘to-do later’ list or when our health deteriorates, particularly in the lead up to the silly season.

“Appointments like dental check-ups and eye tests are important health activities for Australians of all ages, but we continue to see many people deferring these,” Dr MacDermott said.

Across 2025, the most popular Extras claims were dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic, optometry and remedial massage.

Dr MacDermott also encouraged Australians to take practical steps to ensure they can start 2026 off on a healthy note.

“The new year is also a great opportunity to think about your health goals and what you might need to incorporate into your lifestyle to feel your best, both physically and mentally. An open conversation with a trusted health professional is the best place to start.”

With cost-of-living continuing to impact Australians, Bupa claims data shows approximately 1 million health insurance customers received no-gap preventative dental treatments such as general check-ups over the past year. Eligible customers have also collectively saved $15.5 million by claiming 100 per cent back (up to yearly limits) on 358,000 general dental fillings through Bupa’s market-leading Members First Ultimate benefit^[2].

Claims data also shows, the highest total benefits have been paid out for the removal of calculus, physiotherapy, dental x-rays with full crowns among the highest where the average benefit has been $845.

The new year is also a good time for Australians to review their health insurance policy to ensure it meets their current health and wellbeing needs.

_{^{[1] https://media.bupa.com.au/download/f49b3c5c-2cbb-4fa1-92fa-1d3612bb80d7/bupapulsecheck2025.pdf 
[2] Select direct restoration and general fillings only. Benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, yearly limits, fund and policy rules apply. Available on all Extras products with general dental at Members First Ultimate Providers. Not available in all areas.}}

The global study^[1] showed Australian entrepreneurs are the most likely to buck this trend – 14% say they proactively manage their mental health compared to those in the UK (6%), US (6%) and Spain (11%). Entrepreneurs in Australia are also most likely to reflect their own proactive approach Austrato mental health into the company culture.  Nearly half (49%) say they have implemented mental health resources and tools to support employees, compared to entrepreneurs in Poland (34%), US (33%), UK (28%), Spain (22%).

The research also revealed that those entrepreneurs from across the globe projecting strong company growth are more likely to be proactive about managing their mental health. Those anticipating 10%+ business growth over the next year are twice as likely (10% v 5%) to proactively manage their mental health compared to entrepreneurs predicting lower company growth (0-5%).

Globally, almost 1 in 5 (17%) say they never check in on their mental health or wellbeing. This prevention gap highlights the need to make mental health support as routine and accessible as physical healthcare, a challenge Bupa aims to address through opening 60 Mindplace mental health clinic by the end of 2027.

Bupa has also partnered with Australian founder Marita Cheng, founder of AI and robotics companies Aubot, Aipoly and Robogals, to shine a light on the importance of protecting mental health.

Marita Cheng, founder of AI and robotics companies Aubot, Aipoly and Robogals, said: “As a founder, how you show up mentally sets the tone for your whole company. When I’m well-rested, positive, and calm, that energy ripples through my team. It’s not about being endlessly strong - it’s about creating space to recharge, connect with others, and bring that steady mindset back into the business.”

“Founders carry a huge responsibility, not just for their own success, but for the livelihoods of their teams and the people who believe in their vision. That weight can be intense, which is why it’s so important to take care of your own mental health along the way. Taking breaks, getting perspective, and finding the things that help you feel grounded all build resilience over time. Looking after your mind isn’t a luxury - it’s part of leading well and staying the course.”

Andrea Christie-David, Director of Mental Health at Bupa, said: “In our busy lives, mental health often gets pushed to the sidelines. Our research shows that an ‘always on’ approach to mental health is key for personal wellbeing and integral to business success.

Yet even leaders who recognise this fact don’t always find it easy to engage proactively with their mental health. We’ve launched our new Mindplace mental health clinics in cities around Australia and available to anyone via telehealth, to make it as simple as possible for busy people to take a proactive approach to mental wellbeing - supporting everyday resilience, not just recovery.”

Work related pressures have led to many Australian entrepreneurs experiencing symptoms of poor mental health - three in five (65%) say they have experienced anxiety in the past year, while over half (54%) report sleep disturbances. In addition, to physical symptoms 42% also say they have experienced low mood or persistent sadness, and the same number (42%) have felt loss of motivation, impacting both their professional and personal lives. 

Nearly three quarters (72%) say work-related stress has affected their ability to switch off during family events and special occasions during the last year, while over half (58%) say work-related pressure always or often prevents them from switching off at weekends. Australian entrepreneurs also recognise the dangers to their business of neglecting their mental health, with 61% saying that poor mental health has impacted their ability to lead in the past year.

For more information about Mindplace, visit here.

^{[1] Bupa, in collaboration with Oxford Economics, surveyed 500 active company entrepreneurs across five global markets: Australia, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The survey was fielded in October 2025 and was conducted via online methodology.} 

“During her time at Bupa, Liz has fostered strong and mutually beneficial relationships with our government stakeholders and been a true champion of innovative, customer-centric healthcare.

“I want to personally thank Liz for her contribution and dedication to Bupa and wish her and her family well for the future,” Mr Stone said.

Given this, and the significant growth and establishment of new businesses within Bupa’s Health Services portfolio, two new Executive leadership roles will be created to support healthcare delivery and government services.

Guneet Sawhney will take up the role of Managing Director, Healthcare Services, and Glenn McPhee, the role of Managing Director, Government Services, reporting into APAC CEO, Nick Stone.

Mr Stone said: “Bupa has ambitious plans to scale and expand our health provision footprint to create services that better meet the changing needs of our customers.

“The decision to create these two focused leadership positions will ensure we have additional executive oversight in these critical areas as we head into 2026.”

Guneet has been with Bupa for more than a decade, most recently leading our Dental, and Optical & Hearing businesses. Guneet is a passionate customer advocate and has contributed significantly to shaping the success of our healthcare provisioning business, putting patients at the centre of everything we do. Glenn joined Bupa this year as Director, Bupa Medical Visa Services and Government Partnerships, bringing with him extensive operational and government contract experience, including as a member of the Australian Defence Force for more than 15 years.

“I look forward to Guneet and Glenn continuing to build on the great momentum that has been established in our health provisioning business, leading our hard-working teams to deliver the best healthcare for our customers along with our Government and Defence partners,” Mr Stone added.

Over the coming 25 years, the Bupa Nature Regeneration Project at Mount Eccles intends to bring back local wildlife and rejuvenate the site with more than 200,000 native trees and shrubs including Blue Gum, Blackwood and Silver Wattle. The amount of carbon intended to be captured in plants, trees and soil over the life of the project is estimated to be around 200,000 tonnes, the equivalent of the greenhouse gas emissions created by simultaneously recharging sixteen billion smartphones^[2].  

Bupa Asia Pacific CEO, Nick Stone said: We’re already seeing the impacts of climate change on the health of Australians with increases in pollution related illnesses and extreme weather events impacting hospitalisation rates.

“There’s increasing evidence that in the long-term, reducing the impacts of climate change will keep more people out of hospital,” Mr Stone said.

“However, we also can’t shy away from the fact that the healthcare sector is a significant contributor to both waste and emissions, responsible for around 5.4 per cent of the nation’s total emissions each year^[3].”

By undertaking this nature regeneration project, along with its other carbon emission reduction programs, Bupa is committed to cleaning the environment, creating a healthier Australia and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

“Tangible actions such as nature regeneration and local carbon sequestration projects are major priorities under our sustainability strategy. That’s why we’re proud that Bupa in Australia is taking a leading position as the first business in the global Bupa Group to undertake this kind of investment.

“At a local level, the introduction of native plants and trees, will help attract wildlife back to the area, and we’re also expecting to make a positive impact on the overall rejuvenation of the wider farm surrounds,” Mr Stone said.  

Bupa has also contributed to nature regeneration through initiatives such as its Healthy Cities Challenge, which has seen the organisation contribute more than $3 million in the region to nature regeneration projects through partnerships with organisations such as Landcare Australia. Bupa also made the move to 100 per cent renewable electricity in all of its locations across Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, removing an estimated 26,500 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere annually.

Bupa Asia Pacific Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, Roger Sharp said: “We know every action we take can make a difference. By consistently taking these small steps, we’re able to drive environmental action across our Asia Pacific and global network.

“We know our customers and the broader community want us to do more to address climate change, with our research suggesting 46 per cent of people are feeling stressed about the impact society is having on the environment^[4]. That’s why we’re committed to working collaboratively with community, regulatory and health sector partners, along with our people and customers to drive innovative and lasting change,” Mr Sharp said.

The Bupa Nature Regeneration Project at Mount Eccles will have no impact on health insurance premiums or other healthcare delivery costs for customers and has been registered by the Clean Energy Regulator.

For more information about Bupa’s sustainability strategy visit here.

^{[1] Carbon farming is managing land to reduce carbon in the atmosphere. This can be achieved by either storing carbon in soil and vegetation (sequestration) or avoiding greenhouse gases being released in the first place (emissions avoidance).
[2] Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator - Calculations and References | US EPA
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator - Calculations and References | US EPA
[3] Urgent push to reduce emissions and costs, provide better patient care in Australia’s health system - Monash University}

The Hidden Strain on Migrant Health Whitepaper found more than a third (39%) of migrant workers had never taken a single sick day, while another 38% had taken just one or two days off in the past year. By comparison, the national average per worker is between nine and 14 sick days annually.

Bupa Health Services Clinical Director Dr Tony MacDermott said cultural attitudes played a role in sick days including the fact that formal sick leave may not exist in a person’s country of origin and some new arrivals may be unaware of their work entitlements in Australia.

The report also reveals Australia’s healthcare system is a major drawcard for migrant workers with 72% agreeing it makes Australia a more attractive place to live and work compared to others with high trust of our health system among migrant workers.

Dr MacDermott said: “There are places around the world where migrant workers have fewer rights than they have in Australia. Some countries deport migrant workers at their discretion, including when workers are found to have certain health conditions.

“That may influence a migrant worker’s perceptions of what their rights are in Australia. For example, they may worry about losing their job if they take unscheduled leave, or that their visa status might be jeopardised if they have a health condition.”

The Hidden Strain on Migrant Health Whitepaper, commissioned by Bupa in partnership with Quantum Market Research, draws on survey results of migrant workers on overseas health cover, examining the health and wellbeing experience of migrants and highlights where the health system is working well, where it isn’t and what solutions might help address productivity and wellbeing challenges.

Other key findings in The Hidden Strain on Migrant Health whitepaper include:

• Just 13% of those who report poor or very poor mental health have sought help from a doctor and only 18% have accessed some form of counselling

• 36% struggled to find a GP that spoke their language and 41% said language barriers were the key obstacle in getting medical help.

• Workers in mining, retail and construction reported better mental and physical health while white-collar professionals, including those in accounting, banking and IT, are among the migrant workers most likely to self-report poorer health

• 27% avoided medical treatment due to difficulty in talking time off work

• 51% said cultural background influenced healthcare needs, highlighting the danger of treating migrants as a single, homogenous group.

• The biggest stressor was uncertainty, with almost 1 in 2 worrying about their visa status.

• Young people were the most proactive in seeking care with 77% of 18 to 24-year-olds visiting a GP in Australia – well above the average of 59% across all age groups.

• 44% reported exercise as average or poor, 31% said diet was average or poor and 35% said sleep was average or poor.

• 59% have seen a GP and 23% used a telehealth service

In the report, Bupa acknowledges healthcare challenges were complex and calls for action across government, employers, healthcare providers, universities, migration agents and the broader community to create pathways that are safe, accessible and sustainable.

“Now is the time to invest in care that supports all cultures, expand affordable and flexible access, mandate cost transparency, normalise mental health support and equip workplaces to reduce presenteeism. These actions are essential to ensure Australia’s healthcare system serves everyone, strengthens the workforce and protects the health and future of migrant communities,” the report states.

“For Australia to thrive, we must ensure that our culturally diverse communities are supported in every aspect of their health and wellbeing – physically, mentally and socially.

“Employers, policymakers and healthcare providers must prioritise mental health while addressing workplace pressures and general workplace readiness, as well as visa uncertainty and financial stresses that are playing into the fear of taking sick leave.”

The Hidden Strain on Migrant Health paper recommends a six-point plan to remove barriers and make access simple, transparent and accessible.

• Improve cost transparency: Require providers to publish upfront costs, give written out-of-pocket estimates, and ensure insured patients aren’t billed upfront for emergency public hospital.

• Expand multilingual and culturally competent care: Strengthen training, education, and resources to improve health literacy and access for diverse communities.

• Enhance mental health support and reduce stigma: Normalise mental health conversations and deliver culturally tailored, language-accessible education and support through workplaces, schools, and community networks to reduce stigma and improve wellbeing.

• Expand flexible access to healthcare: Increase virtual, after-hours, and on-site health services in workplaces and universities to better meet migrants’ needs.

• Empower workplaces as agents of change: Support migrant wellbeing through inclusive education, diversity programs, flexible work, and subsidised health insurance.

• Support young migrants and international students: Provide targeted employment, financial, and community programs through migration agents and universities to build skills and connections.

Bupa found there was optimism for migrant workers and their health and wellbeing needs.

“The good news is that change is possible and there’s much that can be done to support migrants’ mental and physical health. It’s not about a single, sweeping solution but, rather, small, practical steps that can add up over time,” the report says.

“We need to move beyond the narrow ‘fix healthcare’ narrative. It’s about advocacy, normalising things like how sick leave is used, supporting people to be at their best and broadening the conversation to include wellbeing before someone gets sick or needs hospital care.

“Ensuring they receive adequate healthcare, mental health support and workplace protections is vital for maintaining resilient and equitable communities.”

To read the full report click here.

The 2026 program marks the very first time the Graduate Program has been extended to oral health therapists in keeping with Bupa’s ongoing commitment to supporting the dental industry as a whole. As part of the Dental and OHT programs, participants will be paired with a dedicated mentor and have the opportunity to develop their skills across Bupa Dental Care’s national network of 175 practices nationwide.

Bupa Dental Care Director, Guneet Sawhney said the program is crafted to equip emerging dentists and OHTs with all the resources they need to forge a rewarding and impactful career in dentistry.

“At Bupa Dental Care, we are deeply invested in the professional growth of our graduates who will shape the future of the industry in their own right. This means delivering interactive training that encompasses clinical practice, financial management, leadership and community impact.

“Mentorship is at the heart of our approach. Our experienced dentists and OHTs are committed to guiding, teaching, and supporting graduates, tailoring their advice to each individuals’ interests and goals. The program’s flexibility ensures that guidance is both practical and meaningful,” said Guneet.

Understanding the value of flexibility and professional development, the program also offers dentists and OHTs the opportunity to work at different locations during the program, the opportunity to attend three in-person CPD workshops and access to Bupa’s industry-leading digital clinical tools.

“We know that administrative and non-clinical duties can be daunting for new graduates. That’s why our support team handles these tasks, allowing graduates to focus on patient care while honing their clinical skills,” said Guneet.

Graduate dentists interested in the 2026 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Dentist Program (6 or 12 months) can express their interest here.

Graduate Oral health therapists interested in the 2026 Bupa Dental Care Graduate Oral Health Therapist Program (12 months) can express their interest here.

The 16 participating organisations of the Transitions to Sustainable Health Systems consortium, convened by Monash University, have today unveiled a sector-wide guide toward net zero, including to invest in disease prevention, streamline healthcare services, consider environmental impact in purchasing decisions, minimise waste, switch to renewable electricity, phase out the use of fossil gas in health facilities, and reduce the need for patients to travel for care.

Australia’s health system is directly or indirectly responsible for an estimated 5.4 per cent of the nation’s total emissions each year, and up to 8 per cent of material waste.

Accelerating towards net zero: A guide for the Australian health system, launched today at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, is a guide for health organisations across Australia to adopt and tailor to their needs and priorities.

Planetary health specialist Professor Angie Bone, from the Monash School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, said transitioning the health sector to zero emissions will lead to lower health costs and better patient care.

“Australia’s health system is already challenged by increasing demand, and climate change will only worsen this situation,” Professor Bone said.

“But while we are treating patients we are also generating climate-altering emissions, creating an uncomfortable paradox for our sector and our staff.

“Fortunately, many of the actions we can take to reduce our emissions have wider benefits for patients in terms of improving the quality, safety and efficiency of healthcare, and reduce costs for patients and the system."

Monash University convened the Transitions to Sustainable Health Systems consortium last year alongside Advanced Pharmacy Australia, Alfred Health, Bupa, Eastern Health, Grampians Health, Kooweerup Regional Health service, Monash Health, Northern Health, the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, and the state health departments of Tasmania, Queensland, Victoria, and West Australia.

The consortium has identified priorities and practical actions that the Australian health system can take to accelerate emissions reduction, bringing together research and practical experience, supported by Monash’s capabilities in system transitions, emission reduction, and behaviour change.

Alfred Health Chief Executive Adjunct Professor Adam Horsburgh said the project had the potential to influence significant changes across the health sector and beyond.

“Healthcare operates around the clock and, as we continue to care for our community and save lives, we are also committed to minimising the impact our vital work has on the environment,” Adjunct Professor Horsburgh said.

“From small changes to existing programs though to exciting new initiatives, this collaboration has an important part to play in showing what can be done when we think big and show leadership in our response to the challenges of climate change.”

Bupa Asia Pacific Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Roger Sharp said climate change is a major threat to human health, and we can’t escape the fact that the healthcare sector is part of this problem.

“There is an urgent need to reduce the emissions that the healthcare industry generates while still focussing on delivering optimal health outcomes for patients,” Sharp said.

“While we know we don’t have all the answers, this guide is a testament to our continued commitment to work collaboratively with other organisations like Monash University to increase visibility of environmental issues, spotlight organisations making positive progress and showcase sustainable solutions that are currently available.”

Advanced Pharmacy Australia Chief Executive Kristin Michaels said the consortium is a powerful force for change and the guide is a vital first step in helping health organisations fast-track the collective journey towards net zero.

“Embedding sustainability into healthcare practice is no longer optional,” she said.

“We want to see it made a priority in medicines prescribing, procurement, and all decision-making.

“By factoring in carbon costs and driving greater transparency, we can make greener choices that protect both the health of our people and our planet.”

Accelerating towards net zero: A guide for the Australian health system draws heavily on insights generated from a series of participatory workshops with 135 healthcare professionals from 54 healthcare organisations from across Australia, informed by a rapid review on the effectiveness of sustainable healthcare interventions.

Decarbonising the health system involves interrelated action across three main areas: prevention and models of care, green procurement and material waste, and energy, facilities and transport.

These actions must be supported by systems and processes that enable their effective and efficient implementation, including good governance and appropriate funding, a well-supported workforce, improvements in data and knowledge to inform action, and availability of the necessary infrastructure, products and services.

Fast facts:

• The Australian health system is directly or indirectly responsible for  an estimated 23,522 kilotonnes of greenhouse gas annually, or 5.4 per cent of total Australian emissions.
• Breakdown of emissions by health system:
• 68 per cent: Products purchased by the health system, including treatment and disposal at end of life.
• 20 per cent: Purchased energy
• 6 per cent: Direct emissions (generated by the organisation as part of operations, such as use of fossil gas for heating and sterilisation)
• 6 per cent: Patient travel to and from healthcare services
• NSW Health reports that sustainability programs have saved more than $12 million per year since 2016.
• About 30 per cent of healthcare in wealthy countries is duplicative (for example, repeated diagnostic tests because the results are not visible between different parts of the health system), unnecessary or of little benefit, and about 10 per cent actually leads to patient harm. Harmful and unnecessary care also generates avoidable GHG emissions estimated at 11,447 kilotonne of emissions each year in Australia. This is more than the combined emissions from domestic aviation and shipping in Australia during the financial year 2022–23.

Case studies: 

• Grampians Health resource stewardship program has trained more than 400 staff since 2018 to implement programs to reduce emissions and waste while enhancing quality and safety of care. One example is a nurse-led program to train staff to recognise early signs of sepsis helped prevent progression to more severe disease, halving the number of admissions to the Intensive Care Unit, halving the length of time people were there, and dramatically reducing deaths.
• The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department at Northern Health in Melbourne uses virtual consultations to address non-urgent conditions and divert patients from physical emergency departments. Born from the necessity of managing COVID-19, the VVED has expanded into a statewide model, recognised for both its environmental and healthcare benefits, saving an estimated 2200 tonnes of carbon emissions by reducing patient travel.
• Bupa Asia Pacific’s power purchasing agreement as part of a key pillar of its broader sustainability strategy, Mission Zero. Motivated by this strategic commitment and the economic benefit of securing long-term energy price certainty, this initiative involved affordably integrating renewables into Bupa’s energy supply, enabling a move to 100 per cent renewable electricity across Bupa’s operations in Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong.

Read the guide here.